Anti-Japanese Propaganda

Presented by the Hampton Roads Naval Museum

Overview of Anti-Japanese Propaganda

• Initiated post-Pearl Harbor attack (December 7, 1941).
• Propaganda aimed at Japanese involved heavy racism.
• Focus on cultural superiority, depicting Japanese as weak or animalistic.
• Racism influenced war efforts and had significant consequences on the home front.

Key Propaganda Imagery and Messages

"Don’t Save his Face! Every Blow Counts in the Battle for Production"

• Imagery: American Labor fist striking a caricatured Japanese face.
• Colors: Dominant red, white, and black promoting American pride and aggression.

"Army, Civilian, Navy"

• Historical Context: Japanese occupation of Aleutian Islands (Attu and Kiska) in 1942.
• Transportation Control: Strategic position for Pacific Ocean control.
• Imagery: Racist depiction of Japanese.

Notable Cartoons and Posters

"Waiting for the Signal From Home"

• Artist: Dr. Seuss (early career as a political cartoonist).
• Imagery: Japanese in line for TNT, uniform appearances.
• Legacy: Dr. Seuss later advocated for inclusivity, e.g., "The Sneetches."

"Tokio Kid Say" and "Tojo Velly Happy"

• Imagery: Japanese depicted with exaggerated, subhuman features.
• Mockery: Japanese accent ridiculed, targeting racial stereotypes.

"How to Spot a Jap"

• Educational Purpose: Soldiers taught to differentiate between Japanese and Chinese.
• Undertone: Strongly racist implications.

Conclusion

• Anti-Japanese propaganda post-Pearl Harbor heavily relied on racist imagery.
• Used to promote cultural superiority and racial stereotypes.
• Had far-reaching impacts on public perception and wartime attitudes.