A Guide to Primary Resources for U.S. History : "Powers of Persuasion" Interactive Site National Archives and Records Administration: "Powers of Persuasion" - Poster Art of World War II This resource presents a well-designed and highly informative project website about the poster art of World War II. The images and accompanying links allow students to explore both the content and the context of art which was dedicated to the effort to boost public morale and produce national unity. It can be used to raise questions and spark discussion about the uses of art for "propaganda" or practical purposes. After reviewing the concept of propaganda with students, the teacher can ask students to look through the posters on the site and create a list of the American symbols and values presented in the posters. This activity can lead to a discussion of how the media chose to present and support the war effort, in particular how the media portrayed American patriotism. The posters included on the site relate to both the activities described in VUS.11a and VUS.11b. The site could be used to supplement these activities.

"Powers of Persuasion" Interactive Site
National Archives and Records Administration: Poster Art of World War II

Description: This resource presents a well-designed and highly informative project website about the poster art of World War II. The images and accompanying links allow students to explore both the content and the context of art which was dedicated to the effort to boost public morale and produce national unity. It can be used to raise questions and spark discussion about the uses of art for "propaganda" or practical purposes.

Teaching Tips:

"Do Now" Suggestion

After reviewing the concept of propaganda with students, the teacher can ask students to look through the posters on the site and create a list of the American symbols and values presented in the posters. This activity can lead to a discussion of how the media chose to present and support the war effort, in particular how the media portrayed American patriotism.

Suggestion for Using this Resource as Part of a Lesson

The posters included on the site relate to both the activities described in VUS.11a and VUS.11b. The site could be used to supplement these activities.