I need your skill in a war job!
Maker
US Army
Date1943
Object number00033874
NamePoster
MediumInk on paper with linen backing
DimensionsImage: 710 x 555 mm
ClassificationsPosters and postcards
Credit LineANMM Collection
Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionThis poster shows Uncle Sam pointing his finger and commanding the American public to take a war job. Uncle Sam was the national personification of the United States and a common recruitment figure in propaganda posters. Factories needed to produce large amounts of military equipment and hardware during the war but were challeged with worker shortages, as many men were overseas fighting.HistoryPosters have long been used as a vehicle to spread ideas and promote causes. During World War II, they were used to generate patriotism, sway public opinion and spread propaganda. They spoke from a position of authority uniting people in a common cause.
The demand put on American industries by World War II was immense. Over ten million men were away at war and it was clear that the United States needed to replace them in the work force. The admission of women into the workplace was one response to the problem.
SignificanceThis famous image of Uncle Sam was used on many recuitment posters in World War I and II. It was a succesful campaign because it effectively targeted the individual person.
United States of America Office of War Information
1943
