U.S.A. Bonds - Weapons for Liberty

The American artist and entrepreneur, J C Leyendecker (1874-1951) was one of the most famous illustrators of the early 20th century. Born in Germany, he immigrated with his family to the United States in 1882. Although best known for the more than 400 magazine covers he produced between 1896 and 1950, he also produced designs for poster, book and advertising illustrations. He reached the peak of his fame during the 1930s and influenced a generation of younger illustrators, including Norman Rockwell (1894-1978). The United States entered the First World War in April 1917, with a total of over 4,000,000 military personnel being mobilised during the conflict, resulting in 110,000 deaths. During the First World War, Leyendecker produced recruitment posters for the military and the war effort. He frequently painted stylised images of strong, athletic, men and lithe, beautiful women. This poster, an appeal to youth to sell war bonds for the Third Liberty Loan, depicts a Boy Scout lifting a sword towards the personification of the United States as Lady Liberty, draped in the nation’s flag and holding a shield. Many posters of this time, especially American, sought to appeal to the patriotic pride of citizens. The United States, along with many other countries required extra funds and resources and launched public war loans programs. Individuals and companies were asked to buy government war bonds which would be repaid with interest after the war.