| u0003_0004200_0000040 |
| Title | Don’t Wait for the Draft |
| Creator | Lambert Guenther |
| Date | 1917 |
| Format | 28 x 42 in |
| Description | This poster printed by the Joseph H. Tooker Litho Company, and illustrated by Lambert Guenther, uses the iconic imagery of Uncle Sam and the looming threat of mandatory conscription to encourage volunteer military service. A lean, erect Uncle Sam adorned in a star studded jacket and striped pants, offers a rifle to the viewer with one hand, and points downward with the other hand toward the text “DON’T WAIT for the Draft.” In the backdrop, a military procession led by a soldier on horseback marches in unison, obscured by an enormous American flag flapping in the wind. Like many posters in the collection, the use of red, white, and blue imbues the image with patriotic sentiments and organizes attention by accentuating the text, in this case with the white, bold lettering “VOLUNTEER” communicating a clear message to the audience against a black backdrop. The verbal decree to join the military is intensified by Uncle Sam’s bold, challenging stare. |
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