Document Bank of Virginia
Search using this query type:

Search only these record types:


Advanced Search (Items only)

Can all you can. It's a real war job! WWII Poster, 1943

CONTENT WARNING

Materials in the Library of Virginia’s collections contain historical terms, phrases, and images that are offensive to modern readers. These include demeaning and dehumanizing references to race, ethnicity, and nationality; enslaved or free status; physical and mental ability; and gender and sexual orientation. 

Context

During World War II the American government asked civilians to participate in the war effort. A common way for the government to communicate with civilians was through posters hung in public places. Inspirational, informative, and instructive, the posters were a major part of the war effort to spur Virginians and other Americans to action.

In addition to activities like buying war bonds and collecting scrap metal, people were asked to conserve food and to plant "Victory Gardens." The idea of growing a victory garden was not new as they had been encouraged during World War I. During the second world war crops, as well as canned and processed foods, were sent abroad to feed the troops and allies. As food was rationed during the war years, these gardens supplemented a family’s diet and demonstrated solidarity with the troops.

One way to preserve the food grown and make the seasonal harvest last canning food at home to preserve fruits and vegetables for use throughout the year. This poster was created to inspire those on the home front to see the canning of home grown food as part of their job to support of the war effort.

Citation: Office of War Information. Can All You Can. It's a Real War Job! Washington, D.C. , 1943, Prints & Photographs, Special Collections, Library of Virginia

Standards

Social Studies: USII.7, USII.8 USII.9, CE.9 CE.14, VUS.12, VUS.13, GOVT.9
Science: BIO.1, BIO.4, CH.1, CH.7
Art: 4.1, 5.1, 4.18, 5.18

Suggested Questions

Preview Activity

Look at It: Look at the poster. What do you think is the purpose of the poster? It is an effective image?

Post Activities

STEM Stat: The two most common canning methods are hot water canning and pressure canning in which fruits or vegetables are put in jars and then placed into a pot of boiling water or into a pressure cooker. Certain fruits and vegetables are more acidic than others, which is why there are several methods to preserving food. The hot water and pressure canning methods also help control for unwanted microorganisms that could make people sick. If you were new to the canning of food, where might you go for information? How would you test your preservation methods to ensure your food is safe to eat?

Artistic Expression: Create another poster which supports the idea of families growing their own food to support the efforts of the military during World War 2. Briefly explain why you chose your design and images.