The use of postcards for patriotic and propaganda reasons, in so far as Germany is concerned, dates from the early 1900s. The introduction of faster photographic techniques and production methods at that time permitted the distribution of postcards on a scale as never before. During the First World War, many firms (including the famous W. Sanke of Berlin) produced large numbers of posed studio images in postcard form depicting many of Germany’s better known, high ranking military figures.
The arrival of the latest technological advances in military hardware, such as aircraft, U-boats and airships into that conflict, contributed to the production of numerous postcards publicizing the new generation of young military hero. These were the men gaining fame and honour at what was then the ‘cutting edge’ of modern warfare. The availability of these postcards throughout Germany created an interest in collecting the sharp photographic images resulting from the latest processes.
Later, in 1933 when the Nazis came to power, the value of using postcards for propaganda purposes was fully realized and consequently used to maximum advantage and effect. The Propaganda Ministry of Dr Joseph Goebbels was highly efficient; it had been determined that the postcard image could be personal, even intimate and strong in human interest. Here was a medium that could influence and inspire. With this in mind, the gargantuan machine that was the Propaganda Ministry went into overdrive, producing images of popular figures both political and military.