Over the past century, propaganda has been heavily used on the political scene. Countries all over the world have used art to protest, influence, and as a sense of humor during trying times. In the United States, war has created controversial and infamous propaganda for the people. During WWI, this picture of the fictional character "Uncle Sam" encouraged young men to enlist in the army and to support their country. This marketing tactic became successful when thousands of boys obeyed Uncle Sam's order and enlisted. Today, certain people are against this slogan because they have a better understanding of war and what it can manifest into. Being one of the most iconic pictures in American history, I love its simplicity and that its direct. Propaganda like this still exists today, but some messages can be very severe and harmful, and often times gory.
Other than war, presidents have collected much propaganda during elections and questionable decisions. The recent ex-President George W. Bush might have seen some of the worst of it, being harassed for his lack of public speaking skills and decision to go to war in Iraq. Since his departure, there has been a different type of propaganda with a much more uplifting and hopeful meaning. A variety of spray painted pictures of President Barack Obama have been used to encourage and accept change in the United States. He seems to be much more urban and not as traditional, which is signified by the spray paint. Rather than his picture being shown on billboards and posters, it's mainly seen on clothing, which act as a walking add.
Art being used as propaganda has been heavily influencial on American culture and continues to exist today in many different forms.
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