Keep Calm Carry On was the iconic statement splashed over the red posters printed by the British during World War II. The posters were part of the British government's attempt to keep public morale up after the German invasion. However, the posters were printed in limited numbers, and did not enjoy widespread population after they were released. It was only after copies of the poster were discovered in 2000 that the message began its spread, suddenly appearing on everything from bumper stickers to T-shirts.
Since the posters and their iconic message are now a part of public domain, anyone can own and print their own versions of the poster. Websites have sprung up allowing people to create their own posters in a matter of minutes. It has even made its way to hospitals, serving as motivational messages for tired and harried nurses and doctors. According to experts, the sudden and renewed interest in the poster and its message is a sign of the people's nostalgia for the hardy, understated courage of the British, which is in dire supply during these tough economic times. The popularity of the poster has even crossed continents, appearing in many ads and merchandise in the US and Germany. The poster can be found in the PM's residence, in the office of the Lord Chamberlain in Buckingham Palace, and in other important offices in Britain.
