Final answer:
In political cartoons, Uncle Sam symbolizes the U.S. government, and his actions reflect how the United States interacts with other nations or addresses domestic policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
In American political cartoons, Uncle Sam often serves as a personification of the United States government. For instance, in one cartoon where Uncle Sam says “Lafayette, we are here!”, he represents America's commitment to its allies, recalling the support from France during the American Revolution, now being returned in World War I.
In another cartoon depicting Uncle Sam as a hod carrier, he's associated with the common labor of Americans, perhaps suggesting America's industrious spirit or commentating on U.S. policies.
In a cartoon showing Uncle Sam on a map of China, he's stepping over words along with John Bull, illustrating the U.S. and Great Britain's interests in China's “sphere of influence” during imperialist times. Another cartoon, portraying John Bull and Uncle Sam with the caption 'The White Man's Burden', presents a critical analysis of colonial attitudes, with Uncle Sam addressing 'his new class in Civilization' about acculturating to Western ways.
Lastly, a cartoon with Uncle Sam chasing a diminutive Pancho Villa entering Mexico touches on the repercussions of Villa's attacks and the U.S. response during that historical period.