We've still got a big job to do!
Artist
Howard Scott
Printer
US Government Printing Office
Date1943
Object number00008680
NamePoster
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsOverall: 1 x 721 mm, 0.05 kg
ClassificationsPosters and postcards
Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionA smiling American sailor is giving a thumbs-up, while behind him a 5th Japanese rising sun flag is being painted on a vessel as a symbol of victory. This cheerful poster aimed to motivate workers and increase productivity in factories. It was issued by the Industrial Incentive Division of the US Naval Reserve.HistoryPosters have proved to be a succesful way of promoting ideas and causes to the public. During World War II, they were part of the 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.
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 during WWII.SignificanceThis design is typical of World War II posters portraying happy healthy servicemen engaged in war time duties.