Homefront

In any conflict, only a small percentage of the population actually goes to fight. The far greater number of people are left at home, waiting and worrying. In order to engage hearts and minds, the government and other organizations appealed directly to the American people to support the war effort.

Support could be tangible, as when posters warned against sharing too many details for fear of enemy spies, or it could be material, such as rationing food and other consumables. Support could also be philosophical, reminding Americans that they were all part of a larger endeavor.

Sacrifices could become easier to bear when they were part of a common cause and they were made for the right side. One of the tasks of these homefront posters was to convince civilians that their side was the right side.

In World War II in particular, engaging as many people as possible in manufacturing was crucial as the United States sought to use the full power of its production to supply its own armies as well as its allies.

When you look at these posters, think about how they make you feel. Do they spark emotion in you? Do you feel more ready to support the cause they promote?

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Click on an image to learn more. Use your browser's back button to return to this exhibit page. Do not use the "next" and "previous" buttons at the bottom of the item pages.

Homefront