World War II Poster

Maker U.S. Office of War Information

Maker U.S. Office of Economic Stabilization

Periodca. 1943

MediumPoster

Dimensions28 × 20 in. (71.1 × 50.8 cm)

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

ClassificationsBroadsides & Posters

Credit LineGift of Mr. John B. Johnson, 1944

Object numberL/A - 8099

DescriptionAn illustrated poster featuring a determined looking woman with clenched fist, accompanied by "I'M OUT TO LICK / RUNAWAY PRICES / LET'S ALL FOLLOW THE 7-KEY PLAN TO HOLD PRICES DOWN." This is followed by seven "keys" paired with letters to spell "VICTORY." Each key offers a strategy to help reduce inflation and debt.
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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