Women Help America's Sons Win The War

This poster is unique in its direct appeal to women, who would not have access to their own bank accounts in 1917, to purchase WWI bonds. An older mother reaches out with her arms open wide, beckoning us to remember the sons fighting "over there", as an American flag gives way in the background to a battle of land and sea.

America's involvement in WWI was largely unanticipated, and quite expensive. The U.S. Government began soliciting bonds that everyday Americans could deposit to the cause, to be paid back by the government when the war ended with interest applied. This influx of cash flow allowed the US to buy tanks, feed soldiers, and essentially finance the path to victory.

On April 24th 1917, just 18 days after the US joining WWI officially, Congress authorized the Secretary of the Treasury to issue bonds of the United States to the extent of $5,000,000,000. Twelve committees were created, one for every Federal Reserve District. These committees were entrusted with the work of selling the bonds in their respective districts. Every city, town and village had its own Liberty Loan Committee as part of the war effort.

Buying bonds soon became a patriotic duty and a reason for American pride. You were given buttons to wear when you bought your bonds, so you could show your patriotism. The posters promoting the Liberty Bonds were mainly based in these ideas of patriotism, pride and freedom.

The artist of this poster is R. H. Porteous, of whom we have found very little biographical information about.

This is an Original Vintage Poster, not a reproduction. It has been archivally backed onto linen and is in excellent condition. We fully guarantee the authenticity of our items.