Executive Order 9981: Desegregation of the Armed Forces

Overview

• Established to maintain democracy and equality in the U.S. Armed Services.
• Issued by President Harry Truman on July 26, 1948.
• Aimed to ensure equal treatment and opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, or national origin.

Key Provisions

1. Policy Declaration

   • Equality of treatment and opportunity for all in armed services.
   • Implementation should be fast but without compromising efficiency or morale.

2. Establishment of a Committee

   • The President's Committee on Equality of Treatment and Opportunity in the Armed Services.
   • Composed of seven members appointed by the President.

3. Committee's Responsibilities

   • Examine military rules, procedures, and practices.
   • Advise and recommend changes to the President and military leaders.

4. Cooperation with Federal Entities

   • All federal departments and agencies to assist the Committee.
   • Provide necessary information and personnel.

5. Testimonies and Documentation

   • Armed services and federal departments must provide testimony and documents as requested by the Committee.

6. Duration of the Committee

   • The Committee exists until terminated by a future Executive Order.

Context and Implications

• Historical Context: The order followed the end of World War II, reflecting a shift towards addressing racial inequality, influenced by the atrocities witnessed during the war.
• Impact: A step towards desegregation and equal opportunity in the U.S. military.

Questions and Answers

1. Year Established: 1948
2. Definition of Executive Order: A presidential decree with the force of law.
3. Recent Major Event: End of World War II.
4. Influence of WWII on the Order: Motivated by the desire to rectify domestic racial injustices and prevent non-democratic practices akin to those observed during the war.
5. Meaning of Equality of Treatment: Ensuring identical treatment for all persons.
6. Rephrased Policy Declaration: The President mandates equal treatment in the military to be implemented swiftly without harming operational efficiency.
7. Oversight Plan: Through the President's Committee to evaluate and guide equality efforts.
8. Committee's Role: To assess and advise on military fairness and equality, ensuring just practices.
9. Learning About Necessary Changes: By gathering testimonies and reviewing relevant documents.
10. Duration of the Committee's Work: Until the President deems its mission complete and equitable treatment is achieved in the military.