Monday, February 25, 2013

World War I

Suffragist with "Kaiser Wilson" Poster. National Archives.
Painting of African-American soldiers fighting German soldiers during World War I. NEH. Click here for a larger image.


Members of the women's suffrage movement initially opposed President Wilson's decision to enter the war in Europe, citing the disenfranchisement of female citizens at home. African-American soldiers served in a segregated army and many returned home questioning the value of fighting for "freedom" in Europe while facing discrimination, disenfranchisement and lynching at home. How did President Wilson's plans to make the world "safe for democracy" contrast with conditions within the United States during World War I?