WW2 Tarot Deck: The Real Rosie the Riveters of World War Two

The WW2 Tarot Deck is a 78-card set that recontextualizes the traditional Major and Minor Arcana through the lens of American women's contributions during World War II. Each card features a full-color historical photograph of women engaged in various wartime roles, from factory work to military service. The deck aims to honor the 'Rosie the Riveter' figures who played a crucial role in the war effort, aligning their strength, resilience, and ingenuity with tarot archetypes.

The deck includes all 22 Major Arcana and 56 Minor Arcana cards. The imagery directly uses historical photographs, giving the deck a distinctive vintage aesthetic. The campaign story emphasizes the use of "full color images of Women in the 40's working to benefit the American war effort during WW2," suggesting a focus on authenticity and historical representation within the tarot framework. This approach offers a unique blend of historical documentation and divinatory practice.

By pairing these powerful historical images with tarot meanings, the deck provides a fresh perspective on familiar archetypes. It encourages readers to reflect on themes of duty, transformation, perseverance, and collective effort, drawing parallels between the challenges and triumphs of the 1940s and contemporary life. The deck serves as both a functional tarot tool and a tribute to a significant period in history.

This deck is ideal for history enthusiasts, particularly those interested in World War II and the role of women during that period. It also appeals to tarot collectors seeking unique, theme-driven decks that diverge from traditional fantasy or mythological imagery. Readers who appreciate photographic art and a strong sense of historical context in their divination tools will find this deck engaging. It could also be a compelling choice for those exploring themes of resilience, empowerment, and collective action.

Bobby Alexander created the WW2 Tarot Deck with the intention of honoring the women who contributed to the American war effort during World War II. The project aimed to bring these historical figures into the realm of tarot, using their images to represent the archetypes of the Major and Minor Arcana. The deck was successfully funded on Kickstarter in 2020, raising $1,454 from 40 backers.