Keep Calm and Carry on by Bex Lewis

'Keep Calm and Carry On' has become one of the most recognisable slogans of the twenty-first century. But where is it from and why has it resonated so strongly with the modern British public? This book reveals the truth behind the now infamous poster, tracing its origins to the Second World War, when it was created to allay public panic in the event of a German invasion. Of course this feared invasion never happened, and the poster would have been resigned to the dusty shelves of history were it not for a chance discovery by the owners of Barter Books in 2001. Later seized upon as an encouragement in the economic crisis, 'Keep Calm' went on to become arguably the most successful meme in history. This book tells the story of that phenomenon, including colourful posters and archive photographs throughout.

About the Author
Bex Lewis has a background as a cultural communications historian and digital practitioner, with a PhD in Second World War posters, in which she wrote the history of Keep Calm and Carry On. She is Senior Lecturer in Digital Marketing at Manchester Metropolitan University and a Visiting Research Fellow at St John's College, Durham University. She is a frequent speaker, writer and facilitator, and is author of the popular 'Raising Children in a Digital Age' (2014).


Book Information
ISBN 9781904897347
Author Bex Lewis
Format Hardback
Page Count 80
Imprint Imperial War Museum
Publisher Imperial War Museum