Life — June 8, 1922 — page 21: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts **Uncle Sam** (representing the United States) attempting to stop the **Statue of Liberty** (labeled "Libbie") from leaving. Liberty holds a torch and wears her characteristic crown, while carrying a scroll marked "BILL OF RIGHTS." On the right stands a figure labeled "ENGLAND," holding a trident. The satire comments on American isolationism or internal political conflict—Uncle Sam tries to prevent Liberty from departing ("Home to Mother!"), suggesting anxiety that American freedoms or democratic principles are threatened or departing the nation. England's presence as "Mother" references America's British colonial origins. The cartoon likely critiques either political erosion of civil liberties or questions about American democracy during a period of domestic or international tension, though the specific historical moment requires additional context.