January 16, 2016
Make Way for Democracy! portrays lives of African Americans in World War 1
In an era of federal segregation, many within the African American community felt the call to fight in WWI beneath the claim of “champions of the rights of mankind” rang hollow. Many more approached the war as an opportunity to redefine their citizenship and improve social, political and economic conditions. Created in partnership with the Google Cultural Institute, Make Way for Democracy! portrays the lives of African Americans during the war through a series of rare images, documents and objects. The National World War I Museum and Memorial is one of 50 participating organizations across the country partnering with Google to create exhibitions featuring more than 4,000 items in conjunction with Black History Month.
First New Hampshire presidential primary in 1916 has echoes in events 100 years later
On February 8, 2016 voters in New Hampshire elevated outsider candidates to leading positions in the presidential race, despite objections from some in their party’s establishment. This was not the first time the New Hampshire primary has resulted in a dichotomy between party leaders and party voters; in fact, the design of the primary contest is to empower rank and file party members in the nominating process.
Tired of the shady deals in the smoke-filled hotel rooms of party bosses that had traditionally selected candidates, Progressives at the beginning of the 20th century began adopting the presidential primary as a way to gauge the sentiment of voters rather than political bosses. In 1916, New Hampshire hosted its first presidential primary, the results of which would be echoed eerily exactly 100 years later.
Read the whole story here
Documenting Doughboys will jump start your search for family members who served in WW1
Researching the military service of your family members in World War I can appear to be a daunting challenge at first, but the new Documenting Doughboys series on the Commission web site will get you started, and provide essential tips for navigating the important sources of information available. Check it out here, along with all the other features in the Family Ties section.
U.S. Army “Doughboy” Window Decal
 Featuring the iconic Doughboy silhouette flanked by barbed wire so prevalent during WWI, you can proudly display this poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by all U.S. soldiers.
Get this and many more interesting commemorative items from the US WWI Commemoration Official Merchandise Shop.
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