Life — March 22, 1928 — page 17: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon critiques the conflict between **federal Prohibition** (represented by the stern, skeletal figure labeled "PROHIBITION" at the gate) and **"States' Rights"** (the older woman on the left in traditional dress). The imagery suggests Prohibition is a harsh "stepmother" figure imposing unwanted rules, while individual states' traditional autonomy is being displaced. The gate and fence emphasize separation and exclusion—Prohibition is literally blocking access. This appeared during the Prohibition era (1920-1933), when the federal government's alcohol ban created tension with states preferring local control. The "stepmother" metaphor implies Prohibition feels foreign and oppressive to established American state governance traditions.