Selective Service Act Grants President Conscription Power
May 18th, 1917
May 18th, 1917

How Long Ago?
107 years, 9 months, 25 days ago
Location
United States
Category
Politics & Government
War/Conflict
World War I
People
- Woodrow Wilson
- George L. Berner
- Elliott W. S. Lee
Links & References
- President of the United States
- World War I
- Selective Service Act of 1917
- Conscription in the United States
Tags
Selective Service Act Grants President Conscription Power
The Selective Service Act was enacted, allowing the U.S. government to implement a draft for military service. This legislation authorized the federal government to raise a national army during World War I through compulsory enlistment of eligible men. It marked a significant shift in American military policy, reflecting the urgent need for troops as the war intensified. The act also established a system of local draft boards across the country to manage the conscription process.
Act enabled U.S. draft during World War I
Local draft boards managed conscription process
Originally targeted men aged 21 to 30
Set framework for future draft legislation
What Happened?
The Selective Service Act of 1917 was a pivotal piece of legislation in response to the increasing demands of World War I. Faced with the need to bolster U.S. forces after entering the war in April 1917, Congress recognized that voluntary enlistment would not suffice to meet military requirements. The act was sponsored by President Woodrow Wilson and passed by Congress on May 18, empowering the President to draft soldiers into the armed forces. It allowed for a systematic approach to conscription, requiring men aged 21 to 30 to register, and later expanded the age range to include those up to 45.
The implementation of the Selective Service Act was not merely a logistical challenge but also a cultural shift in American society. Local draft boards, made up of community members, played an essential role in administering the draft and managing the enlistment process. As a result, millions of men registered, and nearly 3 million were drafted into military service by the end of the war. The act created a significant bureaucratic structure to oversee the draft, which would later influence future military conscription policies in the United States.
One interesting aspect of the Selective Service Act was its impact on various demographic groups in America. It galvanized anti-war sentiments among some groups, particularly pacifists and those of certain religious affiliations. Others saw it as a chance to demonstrate patriotism and service to their country. The act also had lasting effects on U.S. military policy and the nation's approach to conscription, establishing a precedent for future conflicts, including World War II and the Vietnam War.
Why Does it Matter?
The Selective Service Act of 1917 dramatically transformed the U.S. military recruitment landscape and established conscription as a mechanism for mobilizing forces in times of war. Its passage not only proved essential for the U.S. participation in World War I but also laid the groundwork for future military drafts, reinforcing the connection between civic duty and national service. The act is interesting because it highlighted evolving attitudes toward military service and shaped the relationship between citizens and the state during wartime.
Discover More Historic Events from May 18th
Joe Biden Launches Presidential Campaign
Joe Biden officially announced his candidacy for the presidency in a speech delivered at a campaign kickoff event in Philadelphia. The announcement highlighted his vision for restoring the 'soul of America' and emphasized unity and empathy. His campaign would focus on key issues such as health care, education, and climate change, and he aimed to build a coalition of diverse voters. Biden's significance in the race stemmed from his long political history, including two terms as vice president.
Continue ReadingCubana de Aviación Flight 972 Crash
Cubana de Aviación Flight 972 experienced a crash just after takeoff from José Martí International Airport in Havana, Cuba, in which 112 of the 113 individuals on board lost their lives. The aircraft, a Boeing 737-201, was bound for Holguín when it encountered difficulties soon after departure. The sole survivor, a female passenger, faced significant injuries but survived the crash.
Continue ReadingSanta Fe High School Shooting Claims Ten Lives
A lone gunman opened fire at Santa Fe High School, resulting in the deaths of ten individuals. The shooter, Dimitrios Pagourtzis, began his attack shortly after the first bell, using a shotgun and a .38 caliber revolver. Many of the victims were students, and the incident also left several others injured. Local and federal law enforcement quickly responded to the scene, and the shooter was taken into custody. The event sparked nationwide discussions about gun control and school safety.
Continue ReadingDeadly Landslide Hits Salgar, Colombia
In Salgar, Colombia, heavy rainfall caused a massive landslide, resulting in over 78 confirmed deaths. The landslide buried homes and swept away residents in the small town, with rescue efforts hampered by unstable conditions. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to locate survivors and recover bodies, while the government declared a state of emergency. Communities rallied to support the victims, showcasing solidarity amid the disaster's impact on the town's infrastructure and population.
Continue ReadingSri Lankan Government Defeats LTTE
The Sri Lankan government declared victory over the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), marking the end of a civil conflict that lasted nearly 26 years. The brutal fight culminated in the defeat of the LTTE, which had been fighting for an independent Tamil state in the northern region of Sri Lanka. The military offensive against the LTTE intensified in 2006, leading to a rapid escalation of conflict in the final months leading to their defeat. International reactions varied, with some praising the end of terrorism while others expressed concern over human rights violations during the final assault.
Continue ReadingNepal's Landmark Bill Redefines Monarchy's Role
The post Loktantra Andolan government enacted significant legislation that curtailed the powers of the monarchy and established Nepal as a secular state. This moment came after a decade of civil unrest and political upheaval, resulting in broad public support for changes to the constitutional framework. The bill was passed by the newly formed government, reflecting the aspirations of many citizens for a more democratic society.
Continue Reading