Propaganda is an ancient form of communication used to influence public perception and attitudes, with origins traceable to early human history. Historical evidence, such as the Behistun Inscription from 515 BCE, illustrates how rulers employed symbolic displays to assert their authority and divine legitimacy. The term itself emerged in the early 17th century within the Roman Catholic Church, referring to efforts to spread the faith through an official congregation. With the rise of industrialization and mass production, propaganda evolved into a tool for commercial promotion, but its significant role in international politics only became prominent during the First World War. Since then, states have institutionalized propaganda activities, particularly intensifying them during times of conflict or crisis.

Today, propaganda is understood as a strategic communication process that selectively presents information and appeals to emotions to shape the attitudes and behaviors of target audiences in support of specific political or social objectives.

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• ThoughtCo. (2019, August 28). Definition and Examples of Propaganda. https://www.thoughtco.com/propaganda-definition-1691544