Vers op de vlucht van de Rijngraaf van Salm, 1787 1787

This broadside, printed in October 1787 by an anonymous maker, is an example of early political propaganda made using letterpress printing, a method that allowed for quick reproduction and distribution of texts. The paper itself, likely made from linen rags, would have been relatively inexpensive, making it accessible to a wider audience. The bold, black lettering stands in stark contrast to the off-white paper, conveying a sense of urgency and outrage. The text, a scathing poem about the Rhineland Count of Salm’s escape, reflects the social and political unrest of the time. The poem's harsh language and accusations, combined with the visual impact of the printing, were designed to incite strong emotions and shape public opinion. This broadside exemplifies the democratization of information and opinion that became possible with print. It underscores how simple materials and relatively straightforward production techniques can be powerful tools for shaping social discourse and mobilizing collective sentiment.