WPA-Era Propaganda: Yesteryear’s Inspirational Messages Are Still Relevant

The Hope of a Nation Poster Series

These vintage, graphically striking, silk-screened posters were designed to hang in classrooms across America. Teachers could swap them out weekly throughout the school year. “Patriotism” was clearly a favorite in the batch we picked up from its previous owner, since it was sun-faded, torn, and had dozens of pinholes. Although the copy and presentation of these 80-year-old posters is quaint, the messaging is clear and has aged remarkably well. The limited number of inks enhanced, rather than detracted from, the posters. The styles may vary, but in every case the text is clearly legible across the room. It’s pleasing to see that children were encouraged to ask questions, appreciate the little things in life, smile, and play with classmates of both sexes. Such messages should never go out of style.

All posters: 12.5” x 18.5”, 1929, 1937—C. R. Jackson Co.