National Archives and Records Administration
Powers of Persuasion

Astronomical quantities of everything and to hell with civilian needs.
--Donald Nelson, Chairman of the War Production Board,
describing the military view of the American wartime industry.

Use It Up, Wear It Out,
Make It Do, or Do Without

Although the United States did not suffer the same kinds of war deprivations that Europe did, there were wartime shortages. Gasoline, rubber, sugar, butter, and meat were among the rationed items. Government publicity reminded people that the shortages occurred because the materials were going to the troops and that civilians should take part in conservation and salvage campaigns.

WWII Poster Image
Waste Helps the Enemy
by Vanderlaan
Produced by the Douglas Aircraft Company
NARA Still Picture Branch (NWDNS-79-WP-103)

WWII Poster Image
When You Ride Alone You Ride With Hitler!
by Weimer Pursell, 1943
Printed by the Government Printing Office for the Office of Price Administration
NARA Still Picture Branch (NWDNS-188-PP-42)
World War II Poster Image
Save Waste Fats for Explosives--
Take Them to Your Meat Dealer
by Henry Koerner, 1943
Printed by the Government Printing Office
for the Office of War Information
NARA Still Picture Branch (NWDNS-44-PA-380)

To More Posters
  • Man the Guns!
  • It's a Woman's War Too!
  • United We Win
  • Use it Up, Wear it Out
  • Four Freedoms
  • Warning! Our Homes are in Danger
  • This is Nazi Brutality
  • He's Watching You
  • He Knew the Meaning of Sacrifice
  • Stamp 'em Out!
  • 
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    National Archives and Records Administration

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    Last updated: April 28, 1998