I Want You For the U.S. Army, James Montgomery Flagg, 1916
This iconic poster was first published on July 6, 1916 on the cover of Leslie’s Weekly with the title “What Are You Doing for Preparedness?” During WWI this became the most famous image. Between 1917 and 1918 over four million copies would be printed to help support the war as our troops were being sent overseas. The Image would be used to help recruit troops during WWI and later WWII.
During WWI, the United States government would commission works of art and films to help promote the war effort and to give moral boosts to the troops. Flagg would contribute 46 works in support of the war during which time he was a member of the first Civilian Preparedness Committee.
I love this poster. It is iconic American art and is recognizable around the globe. It was created when our country was in dire need of Patriotism and support of the American troops. This is a symbol of our country. Uncle Sam has a stern look and almost puts a notion of fear into the viewer. This was such a successful poster that it would be continually used by the military to gain troops throughout the years. This image can still be found in most recruitment offices today.
The simplistic colors along with the details of Uncle Sam make this image beautiful and memorable. I hope everyone gets a little feeling of patriotism when they view this magnificent image.
I absolutely love your blog. I think that every American, and probably many who have never even been to america have seen this image. I have never really thought much about it but I love how you gave background. It is definitely obvious how this links to WWI and it was made FOR the war efforts. How cool! I too enjoy the colors and the image itself is just so recognizable. Growing up in an AirForce family this image reminds me of home. I love the patriotism! Thanks so much for sharing, what a awesome piece!
Great job! So often there is this notion that calculated minds gather to brainstorm their message. Yet with this image there was a notion born from a single artist. Here we see Flagg suggesting a call for war at odds with the national isolationist conscious. Words alone can mean very little to the mind of the prospective recruit yet there can be no mistake what was wanted in this military poster. Invoking national colors and a stern but honest appeal for help, this image has lasted. I am thankful for the background and appreciate the longevity it has enjoyed. This speaks to the effectiveness of the image and of artists. I find it curious that during the early 20th century, Patriotism (the love of one’s country) was just getting off the ground in America while Nationalism (the promotion of one’s country) was starting to ramp up in Europe. With nationalism came propaganda and other similar images with less honest appeals.
Your blog was every educational and interesting. I enjoyed reading the background on the poster and your perspective on it. This poster reminded me of my history class, my professor had a copy of this. It was cool. I never knew how old it was though. I learned a lot from this short and sweet blog. It was great.
Definitely brings out the patriotic in me. I served eight years in the US Air Force once upon a time so I tend to get all teary eyed listening to the national anthem. Anyway, I like the choice of art that you chose. Definitely not a common choice. Your entry was very educational. I find it most interesting that although art was funded by patronage through the years, this is where popular advertising really became art in itself.. or maybe where art was being used for popular advertising. Interesting either way.