Overview
This lecture covered the Bonus Army movement of 1932, where World War I veterans marched on Washington to demand early payment of promised compensation, and its lasting impact on U.S. policy and veterans’ rights.
Background: World War I and Veterans’ Compensation
- The U.S. entered WWI in 1917, using conscription (the draft) for the first time.
- Over 100,000 Americans died and 200,000 were wounded during the war.
- African American troops served mostly in segregated units but some fought under the French.
- Veterans received less pay than defense workers, leading them to seek "adjusted compensation" for lost wages.
- In 1924, Congress promised bonus payments to veterans, but set the payout for 1945 or upon death (“tombstone bonus”).
The Bonus Army March
- The Great Depression left 25% of U.S. workers unemployed, including many veterans.
- Walter Waters led veterans to march on Washington, hoping to pressure Congress for immediate payment.
- The group, called the Bonus Expeditionary Force (BEF) or Bonus Army, grew as veterans nationwide joined.
- They built a large encampment in Anacostia, D.C., living in improvised shelters and organizing a community.
Government and Public Response
- The House passed the bonus bill, but the Senate rejected it; veterans stayed in Washington, unwilling or unable to leave.
- The BEF was notable for racial integration, with black and white veterans living and working together.
- President Hoover ordered the veterans’ removal; violence erupted and the Army, led by General MacArthur, used force, tear gas, and burned the camps.
Aftermath and Legacy
- Public opinion turned against Hoover after the violent eviction.
- Veterans continued to push for compensation throughout the 1930s.
- In 1936, Congress overrode FDR’s veto and authorized immediate bonus payments.
- The experience influenced the creation of the GI Bill in 1944, benefiting future generations of veterans.
- The Bonus Army set a precedent for protests in Washington and veterans’ expectations of government support.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Conscription — mandatory enlistment for military service (the draft).
- Adjusted Compensation — payment to veterans for lost wages during military service.
- Bonus Army (BEF) — group of WWI veterans who marched on Washington in 1932 to demand their promised bonus.
- GI Bill — 1944 law providing education, housing, and business benefits to WWII veterans.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review GI Bill and its implications for veterans.
- Understand the significance of protest movements in U.S. history.
- Prepare for discussion on government obligations to veterans.