Inspiration and Industry: American Women on the Home Front August 17, 2011

The purpose of wartime posters was to unify and mobilize Americans. During World War I and World War II, U.S. government posters urged all citizens to make a personal commitment to the war effort. The special exhibition 'Inspiration and Industry' draws upon original wartime posters to explore the contributions of women during these two conflicts. Using more than 20 striking examples from the Intrepid Museum's collection, the exhibition explores the varied roles of women in wartime through their depiction in posters. While women had a limited role during the First World War, World War II posters encouraged women to join the military, become nurses, take a job outside the home, and conserve scarce resources. 'Inspiration and Industry' examines the contributions of women during wartime and considers the ways in which these pioneering women helped pave the way for subsequent generations.