After an analysis of eight mass literacy campaigns (USSR 1919-39; Vietnam, 1945-77; China, 1950-58; Cuba, 1961; Burma, 1960-1981; Brazil, 1967-80; Tanzania, 1971-81; and Somalia, 1973-75), a campaign strategy for a mass literacy campaign is proposed. A potentially successful mass literacy campaign has to be both an educational and a political event. A useful theory of the mass literacy campaign must, therefore, include the two dimensions of ideology and technology. Ideology will determine the possibility of the articulation and sustenance of the political will to achieve universal literacy--a necessary condition for a successful campaign. The prevailing ideology of the society will also determine the organizational and technological choices that can be made in the planning and implementation of the campaign. The technology of the mass literacy campaign must deal with three sets of considerations: creating organizational structures; determining dissemination of information about the campaign as well as its curricular content, target audience, and methods and materials to be used; and motivation of the people through mobilization. A model for planning and implementation of a mass literacy campaign would include the following elements: mating of ideas of politicians, development theorists and literacy workers; articulation of the political will; sustenance of the political will; temporary institutionalization of the first policy initiative; development of a comprehensive policy-making and -legitimizing organ; study and diagnosis of pre-conditions; evaluation; implementation of programs; and preparation and implementation of post-literacy programs. (KC)