Official Civilian Defense insignia [graphic].

Published: [Washington, D.C.] : [U.S. Office of Civil Defense], [1942]
U.S. Government Printing Office
Physical Description: 1 print (poster) : color ; 102 x 73 cm
Additional Creators: United States. Office of Civilian Defense

Online Version

digital.libraries.psu.edu , Digital image at Penn State

Availability

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Summary

The poster presents official Civil Defense insignia, along with United States Citizens Defense Corps insignia. Each insignia consists of a white triangle within a blue circle, with a unique red symbol within the triangle.

Subject(s)

Collection

World War II poster collection

Note

"Designs patented by U.S. Office of Civilian Defense. Reproduction governed by OCD Regulation no. 2."
"1942-O-484125".

Other Forms

Also available online.

Source of Acquisition

Rare Books copy: Gift of Louis F. Peck, Professor of English, 1965.

Biographical or Historical Sketch

World War II was a massive conflict which involved a majority of the nations of the world, and became the most widespread and deadliest event in human history; it had profound ramifications politically and economically that lasted into the next century. Armed conflict broke out in 1939, resulting primarily from issues and tensions not resolved by World War I, and spurred by desires of expansion; the aggressive Axis powers, led by Germany, Italy, and Japan, were opposed by the Allies, including France, Great Britain, The Soviet Union, China, and the United States, although dozens of countries participated. Gradually, the Allies asserted control, and Victory in Europe was declared May 8, 1945, followed by Victory over Japan in the Pacific theatre September 2. In addition to the loss of of life among troops, civilian casualties numbered in the millions. Posters were used extensively by countries on both sides for purposes such as propaganda, morale, and the broad dissemination of information.
The concept of Civilian Defense in the United States became prominent during World War I, chiefly under local jurisdictions, but took on an even greater significance during World War II, with increased responsibility assumed by the Federal Government.. Even before the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Office of Civilian Defense was formed, with New York Mayor Fiorello La Guardia in charge. The objective was to educate and organize civilians to more effectively respond to emergency conditions, and included such initiatives as emergency training and response, patrol, reconaissance, rationing, and recycling. Since World War II, most of these responsibilities have been assumed by Federal Government Agencies such as FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security.

View MARC record | catkey: 8398435