Primary Sources in the Classroom

WWI Propaganda

Posters

It is information that is spoken or written in a way that convinces people into believing something or taking action

Each of the nations which participated in World War One from 1914-18 used propaganda posters not only as a means of justifying involvement to their own populace, but also as a means of procuring men, money and resources to sustain the military campaign.

(http://www.firstworldwar.com/posters/index.htm)

What is the purpose of a Propaganda Poster?

There was a new idea to use posters instead of handbills

At the beginning of the war, the posters contained mostly text

By the end of the war, they were using graphic paintings designed by artists

History of the Propaganda Poster

WWI Poster Themes- Enlist!

Encouraging citizens to enlist in the military

Great use of emotional images to encourage enlistments

WWI Poster Themes- Conserve!

Citizens were encouraged to save products to help the war effort

They were asked to save food and reuse items

The focus was on helping the men on the front!

WWI Poster Themes- Raise Money!

Civilians were encouraged to buy war bonds to support the war

Individuals could loan money to the US government

In return, the government would return the money with interest

WWI Poster Themes- Promote Patriotism

US wanted to improve morale at home & on the front line

Promotes strength in the ranks at home

This empowers the people at home

They can help their men on the front lines!

Each team will get a WWI posterObserve the poster using the observation

worksheetEach team will analyze the posters for

themes

WWI Poster Activity

Create your own poster Use one of the major themes from the WWI

posters

WWI Themes1. Buying War Bonds2. Patriotism3. Conserve Goods4. Enlist

Create Your Own Propaganda Poster

http://www.history.com/videos/wwi-firsts#wwi-firsts