Historian to discuss portrayal of women in WWII propaganda imagery

The Milford Museum American History Series will present Dr. Marguerite Hoyt speaking on “Glamour Girls: The Portrayal of Women in World War II Propaganda Posters, Films and Vogue Magazine,” at 1 p.m., Saturday, March 14, at Milford Public Library, 11 SE Front St., Milford.

“Propaganda is a tool that governments use to direct people to act in a certain way or to emulate certain behaviors,” said Hoyt. “It is not always bad, but it is always biased.”

“Glamour Girls” is based on Hoyt’s research into World War II propaganda posters that depicted women. She examined imagery from posters, magazines and film to see what effect Hollywood had on government hired graphic artists. 

“Ever since people began going to movies, Hollywood has influenced the way women want to dress and style their hair and makeup,” Hoyt said.

After earning her doctorate in history from Johns Hopkins University in 2003, Hoyt worked as an adjunct or assistant professor at Catholic University of America, University of Maryland Baltimore Campus and Goucher College, where she taught courses in Women’s Studies and American History. 

Sponsored by the Milford Museum, these monthly programs focus on a variety of topics concerning local, state and national history. For more information, contact the museum at 302-424-1080 or email tom@milfordDEmuseum.org. The programs are offered through a generous grant from the Delaware Heritage Commission.