World War I (01:51)

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In 1914, war erupts in Europe; Frances loses 300,000 men within the first few months. America experiences a time of transition and divide.

Lafayette Escadrille (02:56)

The unit consists of American pilots who agreed to fly for France; most are well-educated, elite society members. The pilots see war participation as a rite of passage and Germany as a threat to civilization.

Aerial Encounters (03:44)

Experts discuss the U.S. government's utilization of planes and aerial attacks. The forward-firing machine gun ushers in change. Pilots experience a strong learning curve when learning how to fly.

Mascots and Logo (03:57)

The Lafayette Escadrille experiences high media exposure and significant military leeway. They adopt two lion cubs as mascots and paint an American Indian with a war bonnet on their fuselages. Pilots become heroic figures.

Germany Poised for Victory (04:45)

Germany resumes unrestricted submarine warfare in 1917. President Woodrow Wilson enters the United States into the war. The U.S. Navy utilizes convoys and mines to stop German U-boats.

Selective Service Act of 1917 (04:47)

The act broadly distributes the burden of service; a clause establishes anti-vice zones around military camps. The Harlem Hellfighters are one of the most successful military units; its band introduces blues and jazz to France. African American soldiers face racism in the U.S.

Battle of Belleau Wood (05:00)

The central battle for the U.S. Marines occurs within the trees, creating challenges. Gen. Pershing emphasizes open warfare. Experts reflect on troop emotions and their environment.

WWI Nurses (05:23)

Many U.S. nurses join surgical teams within British units before the U.S. enters the war. Casualty clearing stations are the closest nurses get to the frontline.

WWI Ends (04:45)

The number of casualties and loss of life are high. Troops return home and compete for jobs. Social tensions increase, culminating in attacks on African American communities; the Chicago Race Riot ensues.

Bonus Army March (04:27)

The U.S. military must reintegrate 9 million soldiers after WWI. In 1924, Congress votes to give veterans a bonus. The government refuses bonuses during the Great Depression, resulting in a conflict between veterans, police, and the army.

Veteran Health (05:20)

Many veterans return home without clear medical records, creating difficulties for receiving treatment. The American Legion attempts to create a veterans' health system. Experts discuss the establishment of the Veterans Administration.

Credits: The War to End All Wars… And Its American Veterans (01:51)

Credits: The War to End All Wars… And Its American Veterans