World War One Propaganda

Homework: WWI for the United States at Home

by Darla Phillips

​WWI: Over Here

​The First World War was a total war. In previous wars, the civilian population tried to steer clear of the war effort. Surely expectations were placed on civilians for food and clothing, and of course, since the 19th century, troops were conscripted from the general population. But modern communication and warfare required an all-out effort from the entire population. New weapons technology required excess fuel and industrial capacity. The economic costs of 20th century warfare dwarfed earlier wars, therefore extensive revenue raising was essential. Without the support of the whole population, failure was certain. Governments used every new communications technology imaginable to spread pro-war propaganda. American efforts geared to winning World War I amounted to nothing less than a national machine.

Open Ended

Describe the efforts that Wilson used to inspire Americans to be invested in the outcome of WWI.

​Propaganda poster use

​Originally designed as a magazine cover, James Montgomery Flagg's image of Uncle Sam soon became the "most famous poster in the world," with 4 million copies printed in 1917 alone.

Open Ended

Explain the purpose of posters such as the Uncle Sam poster "I want YOU for the U.S. Army"

​Rally the country

​Once Congress declared war, President Wilson quickly created the COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC INFORMATION under the direction of GEORGE CREEL. Creel used every possible medium imaginable to raise American consciousness. Creel organized rallies and parades. He commissioned GEORGE M. COHAN to write patriotic songs intended to stoke the fires of American nationalism. Indeed, "OVER THERE" became an overnight standard. JAMES MONTGOMERY FLAGG illustrated dozens of posters urging Americans to do everything from preserving coal to enlisting in the service. Flagg depicted a serious UNCLE SAM staring at young American men declaring "I Want You for the U.S. Army." His powerful images were hard to resist. An army of "FOUR-MINUTE MEN" swept the nation making short, but poignant, powerful speeches. Films and plays added to the fervor. The CREEL COMMITTEE effectively raised national spirit and engaged millions of Americans in the business of winning the war.

Open Ended

Describe how the use of media such as poster, television, radio were used to to support efforts of the United States in WWI

​Rallying the country propaganda poster use

​Destroy this mad brute—United States propaganda (Harry R. Hopps; 1917). This poster was released in 1917 by Harry Ryle Hopps, portraying Germany as a gorilla invading the United States having conquered Europe.^[1]

Open Ended

Explain the purpose of using propaganda poster such as the "Made Brute" poster.