The Creel Committee on Public Information: Propaganda and Persuasion in WWI
One of the most compelling reasons for the United States to enter World War I was to ensure the continued survival of democracy. However, the government quickly realized that it needed to do much more than merely raise an army. It needed to persuade Americans, many of whom were either foreign-born or maintained strong ties to their ancestral homelands, to support the war effort. To achieve this, President Woodrow Wilson created the Creel Committee on Public Information.
The Creel Committee’s Mandate
The Creel Committee’s mandate was simple: to encourage Americans to support the war. However, the methods it employed were anything but simple. The Committee, headed by journalist George Creel, used every form of media available to them. From books to movies, pamphlets to posters, the Committee was relentless in pushing a pro-war message.
Propaganda and Persuasion
Many of the materials produced by the Committee were designed to target emotions rather than reason. For example, posters would often depict American soldiers as heroes fighting for a just cause while portraying the enemy as subhuman monsters. This type of propaganda was incredibly effective, especially since many Americans did not have regular access to news from the front lines.
Results and Controversy
The Creel Committee’s efforts were ultimately successful. Polls during and after the war consistently showed that a majority of Americans supported the war effort. However, the Committee’s use of propaganda generated significant controversy. Critics argued that the Committee routinely exaggerated or even fabricated stories used to sway public opinion. Others saw the Committee’s work as an attack on free speech.
Key Takeaways
The Creel Committee on Public Information played a crucial role in shaping American public opinion during World War I. By using a variety of media, including propaganda and emotional appeals, the Committee was able to persuade Americans to support the war effort. However, the Committee’s work was not without controversy, with some accusing it of manipulating public opinion and suppressing dissent. Nonetheless, the Committee’s legacy shows us the power that media can have in shaping public opinion.
