World War II Poster

Publisher National Board of Fire Underwriters

Periodca. 1942-1945

MediumPoster

Dimensions25 × 17 in. (63.5 × 43.2 cm)

ClassificationsBroadsides & Posters

Credit LineGift of Mr. John B. Johnson, 1944

Object numberL/A - 7942

DescriptionA colorfully illustrated poster depicting a falling bomb with a swastika painted on the side, while in the foreground a lit match hovers above a group of homes and buildings. Text reminds reader that "EITHER / CAN DO THE ENEMY'S WORK," and "FIRE PREVENTION WEEK / OCTOBER 3 TO 9." A text bubble towards the bottom of the poster contains the Civilian Defense logo and reads "Help Guard / the Home Front / Against Fires." A final line of text along the bottom of the poster urges "FOR VICTORY - FIGHT FIRE AND BUY BONDS."
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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