Illustrator, born in Pelham Manor, New York, USA. Based in New York City, he studied at the Art Students League (1893), and in England and France. Working in pen and ink, watercolour, and oils, he was a prolific illustrator for periodicals. He is known for his World War 1 posters, including the I Want You portrait of Uncle Sam, and for his popular images of young women of the time, commonly called Flagg Girls.
James Montgomery Flagg (June 18, 1877 – May 27, 1960) was an American artist and illustrator.
Flagg was born in Pelham Manor, New York. He was enthusiastic about drawing from a young age, and had illustrations accepted by national magazines by the age of 12 years. By 14 he was a contributing artist for Life Magazine, and the following year was on the staff of Judge Magazine. He studied fine art in London and Paris in his early 20s, then returned to the United States, where he produced illustrations for books, magazine covers, political and humorous cartoons, advertising, and spot drawings prolifically. At his peak, Flagg was reported to have been the highest paid magazine illustrator in America.
His most famous poster was created in 1917 to encourage recruitment in the United States Army during World War I.
In 1946 Flagg published his autobiography, Roses and Buckshot.
James Montgomery Flagg died in New York City.
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