World War I

World War I was an opportunity in America for minorities and previously marginalized groups to gain more rights. Women benefited by being granted the right to vote and having more legal equality after the war. Native Americans participated in the war for honor and to receive U.S. citizenship. After returning, participation in the war gave African-Americans more leverage to fight for equality and rights. Minority rights progressed throughout World War I.

Review Sources:

1.  Aboriginal soldiers in WW1

• World War One was a pivotal moment for Native Americans because it gave them the opportunity to serve their country and gain honor and legal rights. Native Americans faced many more challenges than their white counterparts because of language differences and disease. 

2.  A collection of primary sources regarding African American involvement in WW1

3. https://www.brandeis.edu/now/2014/july/worldwar.html

• (2 & 3) African Americans faced intense discrimination by their white peers during WW1. This discrimination continued until the end of the war, however participation presented African Americans with leverage to fight for their rights upon returning home. 

4.  Native Americans in WW1 and their fight for citizenship

• One reason Native Americans participated in the war was to gain U.S. citizenship.

5.  Photograph of women grinding barrels of automatic 45s

6. Photograph of American Red Cross nurses

• (4 & 5) Some women aided the war effort not by fighting directly, but instead providing crucial care for wounded soldiers. They also bore the responsibility to provide resources at home for those at war. 

​

7.  https://time.com/5537784/wwi-us-military-women/

• Towards the end of the war women were able to make even more contributions i.e. yeomen (someone holding and cultivating a small landed estate ) and hello girls (American female switchboard operators in World War) 

Review Questions:

1.  How did the effects of racism and patriotism affect African Americans while they were at war?

2.  What positive effects did WW1 have on African Americans after their return home?

3.  What was one unique way Native Americans aided the war effort?

4.  What challenges did Native American face that other soldiers didn’t?

5.  How did women aid the war effort?