Pride of the Fleet
Artist
Wright
Date1943
Object number00009081
NamePoster
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsOverall: 330 x 460 mm
ClassificationsPosters and postcards
Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionA coloured poster titled 'Pride of the Fleet' featuring a submerged Electric Boat Company submarine with its periscope surfacing while firing two torpedoes.
During World War II American posters aimed to project a powerful image of the US Navy. This poster depicts a submarine, designed by the Electric Boat Company as the pride of the Fleet and a mighty weapon of stealth.HistoryDuring World War II, posters were part of the war campaign to motivate patriotism, sway public opinion and spread propaganda. They would speak from a position of authority to unite people in a common cause and proved to be a succesful way of promoting ideas.
Posters were displayed in libraries, post offices, schools and factories. Some addressed home front efforts, others exhorted workers to greater productivity. Many warned of the dangers of leaking defence information. Some posters were targeted directly at school children. They were all part of a national and international campaign to support the war effort.SignificanceThis is representative of how posters generated public support for the war campaign by presenting images of the United States as a powerful opponent.
