Australia and Propaganda

During the World War I period, propaganda was used by the government as a mean to attract young men to participate in the war. There were two types of propaganda: Conscription propaganda and Recruitment propaganda. It was a form of media that is aimed at influencing young men to become future soldiers. Various forms of media such as posters were very influential in relation to recruitment.


Recruitment posters were used to make young men feel that they should be a part of the war. The propaganda posters were very effective and enabled countries such as France, Germany and Italy to recruit many members for their army.


There were many categories in which these propaganda posters covered. These forms of media were cleverly presented in a way that utilised gender approach, included peer pressure, encourages the spirit of adventure, exaggerated the hatred and fear of the Germans and appeals to patriotism.

Some propaganda posters hoodwink us and contort and conceal the true facts.





For example, the following recruitment propaganda poster includes the use of peer pressure and gender approach. This poster is well thought out because the use of gender approach is very strong. The slogan, “We Can Do It!” influences them to join because if a woman can do it they can too. Giving the female large biceps is also an effective feature.