Keep calm and carry on

Definition

'Keep calm and carry on' was a motivational slogan created by the British government during World War II to boost morale among the public in the face of adversity, particularly during the bombing raids of the Blitz. This phrase encapsulated the spirit of resilience and determination that the British people were encouraged to embody as they faced the challenges posed by Nazi Germany. It became a symbol of endurance, urging citizens to remain steadfast in their daily lives despite the ongoing threat of war and destruction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Keep calm and carry on' was part of a series of three motivational posters produced by the British Ministry of Information, with only this one gaining iconic status long after it was initially created.
2. The slogan was intended for distribution if Germany successfully invaded Britain, but it remained largely unused until it was rediscovered decades later, becoming a popular cultural symbol.
3. During the Blitz, bombings caused significant destruction in London and other cities, yet many British citizens displayed remarkable resilience, often embodying the message of 'keep calm and carry on' in their daily lives.
4. The phrase became widely adopted in modern times, representing not just wartime spirit but also a broader attitude toward dealing with stress and challenges in life.
5. Various adaptations of the slogan have emerged in contemporary culture, often humorously applied to everyday frustrations and challenges, highlighting its lasting impact.

Review Questions

• How did the phrase 'keep calm and carry on' reflect the British government's strategy to maintain public morale during the Blitz?
  • 'Keep calm and carry on' reflected the British government's strategy to bolster public morale by promoting resilience and steadfastness amidst adversity. The phrase served as a reminder to citizens that despite the fear and destruction from bombing raids, life needed to go on. This approach aimed to unify the populace, encouraging them not to succumb to panic but instead to continue their daily routines with courage and determination.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of using propaganda slogans like 'keep calm and carry on' during World War II in terms of psychological impact on civilians.
  • 'Keep calm and carry on' was an effective propaganda tool during World War II as it provided psychological comfort and a sense of purpose for civilians facing uncertainty and danger. By reinforcing a message of endurance, it helped people cope with the stress of constant bombings and fostered a collective identity grounded in resilience. This psychological bolstering contributed significantly to maintaining high morale among the population, which was essential for sustaining support for the war effort.
• Assess how 'keep calm and carry on' has transcended its original context to become a lasting symbol in popular culture and societal attitudes today.
  • 'Keep calm and carry on' has evolved beyond its original context as a wartime slogan into a universal symbol representing resilience in modern society. Its widespread use today spans various contexts—from personal stress management to corporate environments—illustrating an enduring appeal that resonates with contemporary challenges. The phrase's adaptability reflects broader societal values around perseverance and positivity, demonstrating how historical messages can continue to inspire generations long after their inception.

Related terms

Blitz: 'The Blitz' refers to the sustained bombing campaign carried out by Nazi Germany against Britain from September 1940 to May 1941, targeting cities and industrial centers to demoralize the population and cripple wartime production.

Morale: 'Morale' signifies the confidence, enthusiasm, and discipline of a person or group, particularly in challenging situations; maintaining high morale was crucial for the British public during wartime.

Propaganda: 'Propaganda' encompasses information, especially biased or misleading, used to promote a political cause or point of view; during World War II, propaganda played a significant role in shaping public opinion and sustaining morale.