Propaganda Appeals to Atrocities

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A common propaganda ploy was to shock citizens into action by displaying atrocities the enemy had committed. Oftentimes, these atrocities were greatly exaggerated and not bound in truth, yet nonetheless, the propaganda was still effective. The two most common atrocities which were referenced were the sinking of the Lusitania and the attack on Belgium. The Lusitania was sunk just off the coast of Ireland and therefore resonated deeply with the people of Ireland who were outraged by this act.

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This poster calls upon Irishmen to join the armed forces in response to the sinking of the Lusitania.

Simultaneously, Irishmen were called to take up arms in defense of their fellow Catholics in Belgium. This small nation was invaded by Germany despite their attempt to remain neutral. While under German occupation many atrocities took place under a direct German tactic called  schrecklichkeit which translates to frightfulness. These atrocities were known as the “Rape of Belgium” during which civilians were executed, buildings burnt and women raped (1). The unprovoked invasion as well as the atrocities committed by the Germans gave plenty of fuel for propaganda usage in Ireland.

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This poster plays upon the desire to assist Belgium as well as classic ideals of manhood by pitting the woman against the man, attempting to shame Irishmen into joining the armed forces.
The Huns Have Desecrated and Destroyed the Cathedrals of France and Belgium (Art.IWM PST 13606) whole: the image occupies the majority, held within a blue border. The title is separate and positioned across the top edge, in white. The text is separate and positioned across the bottom edge, also in white. The title and text are set against a green background. image: the western facade of Rheims Cathedral in flames. The bodies of dead civilians lie on the ground. text: THE HUNS HAVE DESECRATED... Copyright: © IWM. Original Source: http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/31606
This poster references the atrocities committed by the Germans in Belgium while simultaneously appealing to religion, calling Irish people to defend the faith.

(1)Wikipedia Contributors. “Rape of Belgium.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 12 Dec. 2016. Web. 16 Dec. 2016.