Shanqi Yanshanqi Yan’s 1965 Poster American Imperialism, Particularly In Latin America1965

Shanqi Yan’s 1965 poster L'impérialisme américain doit quitter l'Amérique latine stands as a vivid example of revolutionary art used as a political weapon during the height of the Cold War. Created in the People’s Republic of China, the poster is a powerful condemnation of American imperialism, particularly in Latin America, reflecting the global struggle against U.S. influence as perceived by socialist and communist states.

The composition of the poster features three determined figures—a man in military uniform, a woman, and another man raising his fist—each holding weapons, symbolizing resistance and defiance against foreign intervention. The backdrop shows a cityscape with chaos unfolding, emphasizing the urgency and intensity of the conflict. The bold red lettering at the bottom, declaring "American Imperialism Must Get Out of Latin America!" underscores the poster's strong anti-imperialist stance, resonating with the international revolutionary movements of the 1960s.

Yan’s use of color and dynamic poses captures the fervor of the anti-imperialist sentiment. The warm, fiery tones of orange and yellow convey a sense of uprising and resistance, while the figures’ facial expressions communicate a fierce determination. The central figure, clad in a military cap, holds a grenade, ready to defend his land and people, while the woman, equally resolute, brandishes a firearm, breaking away from traditional gender roles and embodying the spirit of collective resistance.

The context of this poster is deeply rooted in the geopolitical tensions of the era. The 1960s were a period of significant upheaval in Latin America, marked by numerous U.S.-backed interventions aimed at suppressing socialist and communist movements. Countries like Cuba, which had successfully overthrown a U.S.-supported regime in 1959, became symbols of defiance against American hegemony. China, under the leadership of Mao Zedong, sought to align itself with these revolutionary movements, offering both ideological and material support. Posters like L'impérialisme américain doit quitter l'Amérique latine served to bolster this solidarity, portraying a united front against imperialist forces.

The poster also reflects China’s broader strategy during the Cultural Revolution, which sought to export revolutionary ideology and position China as a leader of global anti-imperialist movements. By depicting Latin American revolutionaries as brave and determined, Yan’s artwork not only aimed to inspire those abroad but also to reinforce the revolutionary zeal within China itself.

The portrayal of armed struggle in this poster is a key element of its message. It suggests that liberation and sovereignty can only be achieved through direct, militant action. This aligns with the Maoist principle of "People’s War," which emphasized the role of the masses in overthrowing oppressive regimes. The inclusion of both male and female fighters highlights the idea of collective effort and the breaking down of traditional societal roles in the fight for freedom.

Shanqi Yan’s work, like many propaganda posters of the time, transcends its immediate political purpose to serve as a historical document. It captures the fervent anti-imperialist sentiment that pervaded much of the developing world during the mid-20th century and illustrates the ways in which art was used as a tool for political mobilization. The poster’s bold imagery and message remain powerful, offering insight into the global dynamics of resistance against imperialism and the role of visual culture in shaping political discourse.

In the years since its creation, L'impérialisme américain doit quitter l'Amérique latine continues to be relevant as a representation of a pivotal era in global history. It reminds viewers of the enduring struggles against foreign domination and the ongoing quest for self-determination in many parts of the world. Shanqi Yan’s poster stands not only as a piece of propaganda but as a symbol of the broader, universal fight against oppression and the resilience of those who resist it.

Politics - Military - China

Printed in China

Condition report:

Good condition, creases, small tears.