Existing comment:
World War I
When the United States entered "the war to end all wars" in April 1917, Native Americans signed up to fight in and support it. Three thousand to six thousand Native men enlisted and another 6,500 were drafted. About two-thirds served in the infantry, winning widespread praise for bravery and achievement. But the cost was high: about 5 percent of Native combat soldiers were killed, compared to 1 percent of American forces overall.
American Indians supported the war in other ways. At home, some 10,000 Indian women joined the Red Cross, donating time, money, and clothing. Native people also bought war bonds. By the war's end in November 1918, American Indians owned $25 million in bonds, about 75 dollars for every Native man, woman, and child.
After fighting for democracy in Europe, many Native veterans expected that the United States would reward their patriotism by granting all of their people citizenship and recognizing the right of tribal self-determination. |