Life — August 21, 1924 — page 19: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This appears to be a political cartoon satirizing the deprivation of civil rights. Lady Liberty (identifiable by her torch and crown) holds a massive padlock inscribed with "DEPRIVATION OF PROPERTY WITHOUT DUE PROCESS OF LAW." The torch points toward a city skyline, suggesting American urban society. The cartoon critiques what it portrays as unconstitutional government action—specifically the denial of property rights and legal due process protections. The personification of Lady Liberty as the victim emphasizes that fundamental American freedoms are being violated or "locked away." Without the publication date visible, the specific historical reference remains unclear, but the imagery suggests protest against government overreach regarding constitutional guarantees. The satire contrasts American ideals of liberty with alleged authoritarian practices.