154 “School Begins,” Puck, January 25, 1899.

“School Begins,” Puck, January 25, 1899.

“School Begins,” Puck, January 25, 1899. LOC

The cartoon, was published in Puck magazine and speaks to the nation’s embracing Imperialism. The “new class” includes Philippines, Cuba, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. A Chincese students is not allowed in the room, a Native American student is put in the corner, and an African American man cleans the window.

The caption for the Cartoon read, “SCHOOL BEGINS. / Uncle Sam (to his new class in Civilization).— Now, children, you’ve got to learn these lessons whether you want to or not!
But just take a look at the class ahead of you, and remember that, in a little while, you will feel as glad to be here as they are”

On the chalkboard is written: “The consent of the governed is a good thing in theory, but very rare in fact. England has governed her colonies whether they consented or not, by not waiting for their consent she has greatly advanced the world’s civilization. The U.S. must govern its new territories with or without their consent until they can govern themselves.”

Puck was the first successful U.S. humor magazine that ran from 1876 to 1918.