First World War – Object #5

Uncle Sam says: “All the Kings in the World Can’t Beat My Hand”

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<p>A smiling, white-bearded Uncle Sam, dressed in a coat and star-spangled vest, holds five cards, labeled “farmer, consumer, banker, wage earner, manufacturer”, in his right hand, while pointing to them with his left hand.</p>

Black and white propaganda poster, 1917

Excerpts

National safety and industrial prosperity are dependent upon the loyalty and efficiency of our producing and consuming citizens. The rules of the war game make victory inevitable for the best partners holding the strongest cards. Pull together and call the Kaiser’s bluff!
– Issued by the National Industrial Conservation Movement – Copies supplied on request – 30 Church Street, New York City.

Questions:

What is the meaning of the cards in Uncle Sam’s hand?

Who do you think was the audience for this poster? What was its purpose?

What does this poster tell you about the role of the United States in the First World War?

Citations

Uncle Sam says: “All the kings in the world can’t beat my hand. United States, 1917. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.