Life — February 9, 1928 — page 17: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a WWI-era satirical cartoon from *Life* magazine. A small figure labeled "BERLIN" (representing Germany) holds a torch while being crushed beneath a large boot stamped "GLAU" (unclear—possibly a misspelling or abbreviation). Above, an American flag-decorated barrel and what appears to be Allied military equipment descend menacingly. The cartoon's message: "Step on It!" urges Americans to intensify military pressure against Germany. The visual metaphor depicts Germany as an insignificant pest to be stamped out by superior American/Allied force. The scale—tiny Berlin figure versus massive military equipment—emphasizes American military dominance. This reflects the propagandistic tone of American media encouraging military action during World War I.