Question

In what ways did the draft reflect the social and racial divisions presented in American society at the time? In what ways does the army counter and reinforce these divisions?

Answer 1

The draft during World War I reflected the social and racial divisions in American society. The army both countered and reinforced these divisions through the segregation of troops and the contributions of African American soldiers.

Step-by-step explanation:

The draft during World War I reflected the social and racial divisions in American society at the time. African American men volunteered in significant numbers, but the government imposed ceilings on their numbers. Southern draft boards disproportionately selected African Americans to protect white men from combat. Additionally, the military was segregated, with all-Black units formed during the Civil War.

The army both countered and reinforced these divisions. On one hand, African American soldiers served in labor units in Europe and some saw combat, challenging racial stereotypes and contributing to the war effort. On the other hand, the military did not integrate its branches until after World War II, reflecting and reinforcing racial divisions in American society.