Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > Posters
German poster, What England Wants, WW1
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
German poster, What England Wants, WW1
German propaganda poster, What England Wants, depicting a blindfolded man approaching the edge of a cliff with a heavy sack on his back at the beginning of the First World War. Date: circa 1914
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14126114
© Robert Hunt Library/Mary Evans
Beginning Blindfold Blindfolded Cliff Danger Dangerous Edge Enemy Foolish Heavy Precipice Propaganda Reckless Risk Risky Sack Start
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Posters
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Propaganda posters
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative German propaganda poster, titled "What England Wants," dates back to the early days of the First World War, around 1914. The image depicts a blindfolded man, with a heavy sack on his back, precariously approaching the edge of a cliff. The man's blindfold symbolizes England's supposed ignorance or indifference to the impending danger, while the sack represents the burdens and consequences of war. The cliff edge and the precipice below serve as a stark reminder of the risks and dangers that England was allegedly leading Europe towards. The poster's title, "What England Wants," is a rhetorical question meant to provoke thought and emotion among German viewers. The poster's creators intended to portray England as a reckless and foolish instigator of the war, leading the other European nations towards a dangerous and unnecessary conflict. The image of a blindfolded man, unaware of the danger he is in, was a common theme in German propaganda during this period, as the German government sought to justify its own aggressive actions and shift the blame for the war onto its enemies. The poster's powerful imagery and provocative message reflect the intense emotions and tensions that characterized the early days of the First World War. As the war dragged on, and the human cost of the conflict became increasingly apparent, the rhetoric and propaganda on both sides grew more extreme. This poster serves as a poignant reminder of the dangerous and risky decisions that led to the Great War and the profound impact it had on European history.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
