Life — September 9, 1920 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Dead Men Tell No Tales" This September 1920 *Life* cartoon depicts an underwater scene with a large skull looming above two figures in what appears to be a submarine or underwater vessel. The caption "Dead Men Tell No Tales" suggests a reference to silencing witnesses or eliminating evidence. Given the 1920 date, this likely comments on wartime or post-war violence—possibly related to WWI's conclusion or labor/political unrest common in that period. The grotesque skull and underwater setting create a darkly humorous memento mori, implying that dead individuals cannot testify against wrongdoing. Without additional context or visible identifying details, the specific historical reference remains unclear, though the cartoon's satirical tone suggests commentary on concealed crimes or governmental secrecy.