World War II Poster

Maker U.S. Office of War Information

Maker U.S. Office of Economic Stabilization

Artist James Montgomery Flagg

Period1943

MediumPoster

Dimensions28 × 22 in. (71.1 × 55.9 cm)

InscribedPrinted along bottom of poster, "Distributed by O.W.I. for the Office of Economic Stabilization."

SignedSigned in red, "JAMES MONTGOMERY FLAGG"

ClassificationsBroadsides & Posters

Object numberL/A WW2.8

DescriptionAn illustrated poster featuring Uncle Sam in traditional red, white, and blue, beneath the heading "YOU CAN LICK RUNAWAY PRICES." Below, more text informs "YOU HOLD THE 7 KEYS TO / HOLD DOWN PRICES," which is followed by a list of tips to prevent wartime inflation.
Curatorial RemarksAmerica's involvement in World War II entailed the rapid expansion of its armed forces, a largescale shift in manufacturing to create military supplies, and the expansion of domestic agriculture to supply overseas troops with food. The United States government oversaw a largescale propaganda campaign to bolster patriotism, support, and military recruitment. Radio, film, and print media campaigns encouraged U.S. citizens to support and finance the war through civil defense, government-issued war bonds, war-related charitable work, rationing, and other civilian wartime responsibilities. Bold and colorfully illustrated posters were designed to elicit strong emotions stemming from the public's wartime fears and frustrations. Notes

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