Jigsaw puzzle of General Douglas MacArthur
Maker
John Sands Pty Ltd
Datec 1940
Object number00016600
NameJigsaw
MediumPaper, cardboard, ink
DimensionsOverall: 411 x 267 mm, 0.05 kg
ClassificationsToys, games and souvenirs
Credit LineANMM Collection
Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionA jigsaw, entitled 'Allied Victory' , produced in Australia by John Sands during WWII depicting a portrait of General Douglas Macarthur and two Allied soldiers.
Patriotic propaganda was a popular theme for those at home, including children, and helped in keeping up morale.
This jigsaw promotes General Douglas Macarthur as "Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Forces of the Allied Nations in the South Western Pacific. This magnificent leader of men in action is a forces fighting man whose past brilliant achievements have brought him a reputation which probably stands him much higher than any leader...”.
HistoryJigsaw puzzles had been popular home entertainment prior to World War II but were reinvigorated once war broke out. Being made of cardboard or wood, they were inexpensive to produce and purchase and were not restricted by material rations. Like other toy and game makers, manufacturers were quick to capitalize and promote patriot themes by using military images such as battle scenes or wartime leaders. Consumers could show their support for the war effort and their country by buying these puzzles as well as enjoying the easy entertainment they provided.
SignificanceThis jigsaw of General Macarthur was produced in Sydney by John Sands and is an excellent example of wartime propoganda produced on the Australian homefront to reinforce allied unity between Australian and American forces.
