The mobilization for the US entry into the First World War sent thousands of young Americans to Europe.
Because there was not universal support for the war, an enormous social and economic mobilization was also required.
This Christmas postcard reflects the reality of soldiers far from home at Christmas time.
The illustration and the printed verse reinforce the idea of the war as a necessary, and temporary, prelude to peace.
The postcard was not mailed, but was preserved for a century.
On the face, a soldier in a US military uniform stands before a tableau representing the wise men on camels following the Star of Bethlehem.
The soldier stands with his rifle on his shoulder, and contemplates his circumstance.
A printed verse, entitled “Christmas Wishes”, describes his thoughts:
“While I obey stern Duty’s call,
My thoughts are roaming far,
And I’m longing to be with you all,
Beneath the Christmas star.”
The postcard was published by the “Illustrated Postal Card and Novelty Company” of New York.
In November of 1918, the world rejoiced at the Armistice which ended this miserable war.
