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The WWI Propaganda Machine


It was recorded in January 1915 that over 1 million soldiers had joined the army voluntarily. However, after the first 6 months of the war and by mid-1915 the number of volunteers was decreasing rapidly which led to the National Registration Act, which listed all of the men who were fit and available for military service. This registration act led to conscription being introduced in January 1916, originally aimed towards single men aged 18-41 but later amended to the introduction of married men. There was chance for men to appeal against being called up for the arm on various different grounds such as health and religious reasons etc. However, those that lost the appeal and failed to turn up for duty usually suffered prison sentences.
             This is amongst Lord Kitchener's most famous propaganda posters. It was a primary source and used during the First World War to encourage men to join the army. It was so successful because of its use of language. The use of the word "you" was used because it directly addresses the men and personifies the poster. The use of Lord Kitchener's image pointing straight ahead supports the notion of addressing men directly as it gives the connotations of him pointing towards them. The use of 'your' again personifies the poster as it is implying the country belongs to the individual.
             The Defence of the Realm Act was brought into power on the 8th August, 1914. It listed everything that people were forbidden from doing during the war. As the war went on, more and more things were added to the list. Originally, people were not allowed to discuss military matters in public areas or spread rumours regarding military matters. The purchasing of binoculars was banned. Melting of silver and gold was punishable. Trespassing on railway lines, lighting fireworks or bonfires, giving bread to animals (due to rationing), using invisible ink abroad, buying spirits (in particular brandy or whisky) in a railway refreshment room and ringing church bells were all offences under The Defence of the Realm Act.


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