Sadly, the 1930's represented the last decade of publication for the First LIFE magazine. It continued to be published weekly through 1932, switching to monthly in 1933, and ending with the November 1936 issue. Magazines were the regular size of 11" x 9" with around 40 pages each through 1932, then changed to 11.5" x 8.5" with around 40 pages each for the remainder. This decade does not always have the two page center spread art piece. There was limited use of full color on a few interior pages.

I have listed only a fraction of the content, illustrations, and advertisements in each issue. Artists who signed their names legibly are most likely to be listed, artist names may be listed in full or abbreviated, e.g. Dr. Seuss = Dr. S. = Theodor Seuss Geisel. While I may list an illustration as a "cartoon" if it is humorous, they are often highly detailed works of art. Some covers in the 1930's have a metallic-look silver border (visible in cover photos) The silver color must have been a softer finish than the other colors as it usually shows rubbing.

Toward the end of 1936, the name "Life" was purchased by Henry Luce, who used it for an entirely different kind of magazine published by Time, Inc., the popular photojournalism magazine characterized by the ubiquitous Red and White logo.

Historical Highlights from 1930

• Astronomers discover Pluto, the ninth planet.
• The 3M company markets Scotch Tape.
• Mahatma Gandhi breaks British law after marching to the sea and making salt.
• Hostess Twinkies are invented.
• The Motion Pictures Production Code is instituted.
• Radio drama The Shadow airs for the first time.