The Story Behind Keep Calm and Carry on

Obscure for close to 50 years before being rediscovered and now a household phrase, "Keep Calm and Carry On" seems to resonate with many as a slogan of hope in times of trouble. Used originally as a propoganda poster, with limited distribution, during the Second World War, the aim was to raise the moral of the British public in the event of a Nazi invasion.

The series of three posters were then rediscovered in 2000 in Barter Books by it's owners Stuart and Mary Manley, who reprinted the popular slogans which can now be seen on various merchandise. It's current popularity is attributed to the sentiment in our recession hit world, as well as the nostalgia for a certain British character and outlook.

While the poster is gaining popularity in South Africa, through retail outlets like Typo, when recently used for a work campaign we had many of the older generation scratching their heads in confusion! In a time where calm is hard to come by, I enjoy the little reminder every now-and-then to Keep Calm and Carry On.

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