Life — December 1, 1921 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Christmas, 1921 - Analysis This is not a cartoon page but rather an editorial essay by E.S. Martin titled "Christmas, 1921." The text addresses post-WWI America's role as a world leader and moral example. Martin argues that the United States, composed of diverse immigrant populations living together peacefully, should use its influence to help restore international order after the war's devastation. He criticizes Europe's continued antagonisms and appeals to American idealism and confidence to lead global recovery. The essay concludes with a call to action: Americans should gather their sympathies and powers to steer the world "back on the rails" toward hope. It's essentially a patriotic plea for American moral leadership during the uncertain post-war period.