WWI-era Social Issues and Propaganda Postcards
In 1917 the United States entered the Great War – later known as World War I – which had been raging in Europe for nearly three years. To gain public support President Woodrow Wilson knew he had to find ways to appeal to average Americans in an era long before television, or even radio, enabled the federal government to reach every home quickly and easily.
Beyond the many contemporary postcards produced of soldiers marching and training; tanks and trenches, you can also find postcards that incorporated propaganda themes the Committee on Public Information (CPI), headed by investigative journalist Howard Creel, developed to get all Americans caught up in the spirit of patriotism.
Many themes were aimed at the home front including Liberty Bond drives, victory gardens, food rationing, and support for the Red Cross. Red, white, and blue color schemes tapped into patriotic feelings along with young couples in love romanticizing the war.
A common refrain during this era called for Americans to “knit your bit” by producing sweaters, hats, and socks for soldiers, and cards abound featuring knitting themes. Another change first instituted during World War I was daylight savings time, which also provided an opportunity for romance, as well.
Browse the tags on the right to explore topics, series, and publishers of war-time postcards calling for all Americans to do their part For the Sake of Old Glory!
