The Forgotten History Behind 'Keep Calm But Carry On'

In March 1939, a secret report commissioned by the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House) shook the foundations of foreign propaganda policy, prompting the Home Publicity committee to begin working on producing material to counteract potential enemy propaganda. Little did they know that their efforts would lead to one of the most iconic and enduring phrases in British history: 'Keep Calm But Carry On'.

Initially, the Ministry of Information (MOI) focused solely on official news and censorship, with plans for 'Home Publicity' considered as early as August 1937 and revisited in July 1938. However, it wasn't until June-July 1939 that the phrase was coined by the shadow MOI. The original poster, designed as part of a series of three, never received official approval and only a handful of originals have survived to this day.

The 'Keep Calm' design, along with its two companions ('Your Courage, Your Cheerfulness, Your Resolution Will Bring Us Victory' and 'Freedom is in Peril Defend it with all Your Might'), were intended for distribution in the event of war. Yet, their creation was contingent upon a compromise between the Treasury and other government departments.

Seventy-five years on from its conception, the phrase has become synonymous with British resilience during World War II. Reproduced on everything from champagne flutes to smartphone cases, it's hard to imagine a time when 'Keep Calm But Carry On' wasn't a ubiquitous part of our cultural landscape. However, this widespread adoption also obscures the complex history behind its creation.

The phrase has become so deeply ingrained in British culture that it's easy to overlook the Treasury compromise that led to its production. Yet, by exploring the forgotten history behind 'Keep Calm But Carry On', we can gain a deeper understanding of the intricate web of government decisions and compromises that shaped Britain's war efforts.

In conclusion, while 'Keep Calm But Carry On' may have become an iconic symbol of British stoicism during World War II, its creation was far from straightforward. By acknowledging the complexities surrounding its conception, we can appreciate this cultural artefact in a new light, recognizing both its significance and its limitations as a symbol of British resilience.

Keep calm but carry on