‘Drawing America to Victory: The Persuasive Power of the Arts in World War I’
In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the United States’ entry into World War I, the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs has launched a new online exhibit entitled “Drawing America to Victory: The Persuasive Power of the Arts in World War I.” The exhibit revolves around 27 World War I propaganda-posters from the State of Delaware’s extensive World War I collection.
Artfully designed to encourage Americans to support and participate in the Great War, the posters utilized vibrant colors and realistic detail to rouse the American patriotic spirit. The exhibit is organized according to themes depicted in the posters including, among others, a call to arms, the sale of war bonds, support for the Red Cross, the role of women in the war and rationing of food and resources. The exhibit is augmented by other items from the state’s World War I collection including military equipment and uniforms, medals, Red Cross related items and uniforms, personal letters, postcards, books, photographs, advertisements and sound recordings. In order to reach the widest audience possible, the division decided to make these items accessible to the public through an online exhibit rather than putting them physically on display.
“Drawing America to Victory: The Persuasive Power of the Arts in World War I” was developed by members of the division’s CARE Team and volunteers and was launched on March 21, 2017.
Go to the following for a full listing of exhibits and displays at the museums of the State of Delaware.
Go to the following for a comprehensive, long-term calendar of events sponsored by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.