Life — July 6, 1922 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Life Magazine Cover, July 6, 1922 This satirical cover by Edward Penfield depicts two military figures from different eras—one labeled 1776 (American Revolutionary period) and one labeled 1922—jointly roasting a rooster over a fire. The rooster bears the label "American Trades Number," referencing Life's special issue theme. The cartoon appears to satirize the relationship between America's revolutionary past and its 1922 present, using the roasting imagery as dark political humor. The pairing of these historical moments suggests commentary on American labor or trade issues circa 1922, likely connecting historical ideals of American independence to contemporary economic concerns. The specific "trades" reference suggests this relates to labor unions or industrial matters of the period.