What was the main purpose of the Creel Committee during World War I?

The main purpose of the Creel Committee, officially known as the Committee on Public Information (CPI), during World War I was to promote patriotism and support for the war. Established in 1917, the committee aimed to influence public opinion and mobilize the American population around the war effort. It accomplished this through various means, including the dissemination of propaganda, the organization of public speeches, the creation of posters, films, and pamphlets, and other communications that highlighted the righteousness of the American cause and the necessity of support for troops.

The Creel Committee effectively utilized communication strategies to bolster national morale and encourage enlistment in the military, as well as to promote war-related efforts such as Liberty Bonds and food conservation campaigns. This strategic promotion of patriotism was critical in fostering a collective national identity and unity during a time of significant conflict and uncertainty.