The Propaganda of Smokey Bear

Introduced in 1944, Smokey Bear is the most successful and longest run government campaign in US history. This non-human mascot remained such a visible icon for Americans, consistently spreading the slogan: “REMEMBER: Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires.” Smokey Bear’s distinguished role has managed to effectively persuade the US public’s attitude and behaviour towards wildfire prevention. In my research paper I will explore the question of how the US government utilizes Smokey Bear as a tool to simultaneously control America’s environmental and civic beliefs. In order to explore this question, I will analyze an assortment of Smokey Bear advertisements and scholarly articles on Smokey’s propaganda. From these sources I will be able to assess Smokey Bear’s evolution which will reveal the various techniques that have been used to draw in the public’s trust throughout the years. Because of the amount of power this anthropomorphic bear holds, the US government is very cautious on the portrayal of Smokey towards the public. By examining Smokey Bear’s impact on the US public and landscape, this paper will enter the conversation with media, political, and environmental studies.