Question

Why is this propaganda poster from 1917 encouraging americans to "plant and raise" vegetables?

Answer 1

During World War 1, food was being rationed. To avoid famine and save more food for the soldiers, people were encouraged to grow their own gardens, therefore keeping them from consuming food meant for soldiers.

Answer 2

The best answer is that all available food was needed to support the war effort. This poster is from 1917 which points to World War I as the conflict- Japan was an ally at that time- though the concept of a "Victory Garden" would be used again in World War II. The idea is that people could grow their own food so that the larger farms in the U.S. could grow food to feed the Allies fighting in France. Thanks