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Think of them before you take a day off

Poster
ca. 1943 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

World War II propaganda posters were designed to influence the thoughts and actions of their intended audience. They excercised their influence by arousing patriotism, hope, and pride, or shame, guilt and fear. Often wartime messages sought to stir a variety of emotions.
Because absenteeism could slow wartime production, this poster issued by the U.S. Navy discourages workers from taking time off. In order to best convey the message, three soldiers are shown in their battle outposts, fighting for their country. Given the extreme conditions of battle, homefront employees, by comparison, would feel ashamed of taking leave.


Object details

Categories
Object type
TitleThink of them before you take a day off (assigned by artist)
Materials and techniques
Colour lithograph
Brief description
"Think of them before you take a day off." 3 soldiers by Hutchkiss and Lovell. World War II poster issued by the Navy. USA.
Physical description
Three full-colour images of soldiers, scenes from their battle stations behind (Pacific Theatre, etc.)
Dimensions
  • Height: 76.1cm
  • Width: 101.7cm
Credit line
Gift of the American Friends of the V&A; Gift to the American Friends by Leslie, Judith and Gabri Schreyer and Alice Schreyer Batko
Subjects depicted
Place depicted
Summary
World War II propaganda posters were designed to influence the thoughts and actions of their intended audience. They excercised their influence by arousing patriotism, hope, and pride, or shame, guilt and fear. Often wartime messages sought to stir a variety of emotions.
Because absenteeism could slow wartime production, this poster issued by the U.S. Navy discourages workers from taking time off. In order to best convey the message, three soldiers are shown in their battle outposts, fighting for their country. Given the extreme conditions of battle, homefront employees, by comparison, would feel ashamed of taking leave.
Other number
LS.498 - Leslie Schreyer Loan Number
Collection
Accession number
E.66-2004

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Record createdOctober 26, 2004
Record URL
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