In 1940 Britain faced the very real threat of invasion. As German forces were
amassing in Northern France, the Ministry for Information designed a series
of three posters to motivate, notify and calm the population. The crown displayed
was that of King George VI, and was included to pacify the people and remind
them the King was still there for them.

The first two posters were displayed soon after the outbreak of war. The Ministry
for Information produced 800,000 copies of 'Your Courage, Your Cheerfulness,
Your Resolution' and 400,000 copies of 'Freedom is in Peril'.

'Keep Calm and Carry On' was the last in the series, to be displayed in public
areas across Britain once the invaders had set foot on British soil.

Fortunately the 2.5 million 'Keep Calm' posters that were printed and distributed
weren't needed. Victories in the Battle of Britain against the Luftwaffe delayed
German invasion plans. It was postponed for winter after which time Germany
was never again in a position to invade Britain.