Request Your Free WWI: Lessons and Legacies Poster Exhibition

The Smithsonian Institution is offering a free poster exhibition to libraries. World War I: Lessons and Legacies is available while supplies last. Request your posters now.

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A group of African American soldiers in World War I
Soldiers of the 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the "Harlem Hellfighters." Image featured in the World War I: Lessons and Legacies poster exhibition. Photo Credit: Unknown photographer, 1919. Records of the War Department General and Special staffs. National Archives.

The opportunity is available to all types of libraries (e.g., public, school, college/university and special libraries). The deadline for requests is Sept. 13, 2019. 

Participating libraries will receive, free of charge:

  • Collection of eight 18”x 26” posters
  • Digital World War I: Lessons and Legacies Educators Guide with discussion questions and resources that align to national teaching standards
  • Detailed Poster Handbook and User Guide with display instructions and promotional resources

Available exclusively to libraries of all types, World War I: Lessons and Legacies explores the history of World War I and its lasting impact on American life. Sparked by the assassination of one man, the war eventually included the forces of the world's major industrial powers (over 18 countries in all) and led to pivotal changes in America’s culture, technology, economy and role in the world. Wartime technologies and medical advances resulted in new industries and novel ways to fight disease and treat disability. The critical roles that women and minorities played in the war led to the right to vote for women and a raised consciousness of civil rights issues throughout society.

From the Great Migration to the 1918 flu pandemic and from the unionization movement to women's suffrage, World War I led to pivotal changes in America's culture, technology, economy and role in the world. It redefined how we saw ourselves as Americans and its legacy continues today.

World War I: Lessons and Legacies is organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service and the National Museum of American History, with funding from The United States World War I Centennial Commission and the Smithsonian Women’s Committee.