What President Desegregated the Military?
The United States military has a long and complex history when it comes to desegregation. From the Revolutionary War to the present day, the military has undergone numerous changes and challenges when it comes to racial integration. In this article, we will explore the answers to the question "What president desegregated the military?" and examine the significance of this momentous event.
The Pre-Desegregation Era
Prior to World War II, the United States military was largely segregated. In 1790, the United States Army was established as an all-white force, and it remained so for over a century. The 1878 Civil War veteran pension act excluded African Americans from eligibility, and it wasn’t until the early 20th century that African Americans began to be recruited into the military. The 1917 Selective Service Act required African Americans to register for the draft, but they were still largely relegated to non-combat roles.
The Early Steps Towards Desegregation
The road to desegregation in the military was long and arduous. In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 8802, which prohibited discrimination in the national defense industry. This order did not apply to the military itself, but it set a precedent for future executive actions.
The Breakthrough: Truman’s Order
The real breakthrough came on July 26, 1948, when President Harry S. Truman issued Executive Order 9981. This order mandated the desegregation of the military, stating that "there shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services without regard to race, color, religion, or national origin." Truman’s order was a direct response to the racial tensions and inequalities that existed within the military.
The Implementation of Truman’s Order
Truman’s order was a significant turning point in the history of the military, but it was not without its challenges. Resistance to desegregation was widespread, particularly among white soldiers who were concerned about the potential loss of jobs and promotion opportunities. Many white officers and enlisted personnel opposed the integration of African Americans, and there were several incidents of racial violence and intimidation.
The Significance of Truman’s Order
Truman’s order had far-reaching consequences. It marked the first time that the federal government had taken decisive action to address racial inequality, and it set a precedent for future civil rights legislation. The military’s integration was a crucial step towards achieving racial equality in society as a whole. It also paved the way for future generations of African American service members, who would go on to serve with distinction in various conflicts.
The Statistics
Here are some statistics that highlight the significance of Truman’s order:
- Prior to Truman’s order, African Americans made up only 2% of the military.
- By 1955, African Americans made up 10% of the military.
- By 1965, African Americans made up 17% of the military.
- Today, African Americans make up around 20% of the military.
The Legacy of Truman’s Order
Truman’s order was a groundbreaking moment in the history of the United States military. It marked a major step towards racial equality, and it set a precedent for future civil rights legislation. The legacy of Truman’s order can be seen in the many African American service members who have served with distinction in various conflicts. It is also a reminder of the importance of continued efforts to address racial inequality, both in the military and in society as a whole.
Conclusion
In conclusion, President Harry S. Truman’s Executive Order 9981 was a pivotal moment in the history of the United States military. It marked the first time that the federal government had taken decisive action to address racial inequality, and it set a precedent for future civil rights legislation. The legacy of Truman’s order continues to be felt today, and it is a reminder of the importance of continued efforts to address racial inequality.
