Posters have long been considered a vehicle to spread ideas and promote causes. During World War II, posters were used to motivate the public by appealing to a sense of patriotism. They were also intended to sway public opinion and spread propaganda. They spoke from a position of authority uniting people in a common cause.

This exhibition from the Australian National Maritime Museum looks at over 30 posters produced and distributed by the American Government during World War II. These posters were displayed in libraries, post offices, schools and factories, and played a significant role in the war.

Sixty years on, this exhibition conveys the power of the medium to arouse patriotic sentiments and support for wartime programs.

Extra displays have been added from the Archives’ own collection of posters distributed in Australia. These posters depict the many Australian Government wartime initiatives including savings and rationing campaigns, salvage drives and warnings against careless talk.

Extra displays have been added from the Archives’ own collection of posters distributed in Australia. These posters depict the many Australian Government wartime initiatives including savings and rationing campaigns, salvage drives and warnings against careless talk.

Download the Patriotism Persuasion Propaganda education kit (PDF 1.6mb)

More Australian posters can be seen in our Bar the Gates – with ‘Beauforts’ exhibition.