American Politics & Pop Culture

Comic books have long been used as a form of propaganda in varying degrees. During times of crisis and war, comic books use their ability to impose influence to send out messages to readers concerning various wartime issues. Comic books take into account the use of characters, stereotypes, and story lines to produce a more effective reaction from its readers. The comic books were not limited to a certain age group or class. Children, adults, or anyone in between could read them. They used characters with stereotypical aspects as examples to portray villains in an animated way, while representing true-life enemies in actuality. The artists and writers were able to include complex political and social issues, but in a more obvious form than current movies of the time were able to. The aim and goal of the comic books were to give children hope for the outcome of the war. The comic books were upbeat and patriotic, and through engaging characters were able to help children gain a sense of contributing to the war effort. They called for boys and girls to do their part by collecting scrap paper, metal, war bonds, and to remain aware of secret enemy spies. The comics pushed for involvement of the United States in the war and for an Allied effort. Through the comics, juveniles were able to associate real enemies with those of the animated ones in the comic books. The issue of women in comic books played along the same story line as that of reality. In the comic books women held more domestic type of heroic roles and not those of combat. This was a necessity for many Americans as it was not acceptable for a woman to be in direct combat.
The most famous and patriotic superhero was Captain America. Captain America fought enemies both domestic and abroad. The most distinguishing aspect about Captain America was that he had a sidekick, Bucky Barnes. Captain America, like many other American superheroes had a uniform that consisted of mostly red, white, and blue.
Comic books were successful propaganda in creating support for the troops and also for the United States government. Many comic books were political in nature and covered the frustration of Americans during World War II and the attacks of 9/11. There was a high desire for comic book companies to relate their heroes to greater conflicts against terrorism. Comic book agencies were effective in their attempts to get their message across of support for the U.S. (Cord)

Scott, Cord. Written in Red, White, and Blue: A Comparison of Comic Book Propaganda from World War II and September 11. The Journal of Popular Culture. P. 325 – 341. November 2, 2007.