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Era of Absolutism, Exemplified by Louis XIV
This source is the Portrait of Louis XIV by Hyacinthe Rigaud. Commissioned for his grandson, the painting exemplifies absolutist sentiments of the 17th and 18th centuries through symbolism and framing. The king's aristocratic qualities are emphasized through his dress and pose. The background reinforces his royal lineage. The painting is characteristic of absolutism because it demonstrates how absolute rulers legitimized their rule while consolidating power from the noble class. -
Growth of Propaganda, Exemplified by Napoleonic Coinage
This source is a coin minted during Napoleon's early reign. It demonstrates the growth of propaganda and government as a whole because it is standardized currency that displays the ruler's image. The coin has clear parallels to Roman imagery through the laurel wreath and side profile, reinforcing Napoleon's legitimacy and the idea of France as successor to the Roman Empire. Coins are frequently exchanged, so they are effective propaganda because people would have seen the images on it. -
Era of Colonialism and Industrialization, Exemplified by a Victorian Cameo
Produced in a rapidly industrializing Britain, this source is a cameo containing an image of Queen Victoria. Cameos were a fad among Victorian women, reflecting the growth of consumer culture during the Industrial Revolution. They were also a symbol of femininity, especially the "civilizing" quality of British, Christian women. Though it doesn't appear as propaganda in the traditional sense, the cameo furthers political goals of colonization as well as Victorian ideals of femininity. -
Propaganda of Total War, Exemplified by Italian Propaganda in WWI
This source is a Italian propaganda poster from WWI promoting war bonds. It shows how entire societies were mobilized as part of the war effort through the inclusion of the little girl. It also reflects the growth of propaganda because it is specifially targeting civilians. An important detail is that the soldier is leaning on the girl, showing the importance of the civilian populace. The girl and soldier are wearing clothes of contrasting colors, emphasizing cooperation despite differences. -
Totalitarianisms, Exemplified Through Nazi Propaganda
The source is Nazi propaganda. It shows how totalitarian regimes like the Nazis invaded every aspect of life through propaganda. The caption reads "Students- be the Führer's propagandists," showing how Nazi belief was spread by the people and not just the government. The swastika in the lower left is reminiscent of a shield, reinforcing the idea that individuals spread Nazi beliefs. The source shows the growth of nations through personal adoption of belief and evolution of state bureaucracy.