The Bonus Army and Their March on Washington
In the summer of 1932, the nation was grappling with the harsh realities of the Great Depression, and thousands of World War I veterans, known as the Bonus Army, marched to Washington, D.C. These veterans were demanding early payment of a bonus that had been promised to them for their service, which was scheduled to be paid in 1945. The economic turmoil and widespread unemployment had left many of them destitute, compelling them to advocate for what they believed was their rightful compensation.
The Formation of the Bonus Army
The Bonus Army formed in the spring of 1932 when veterans from all over the country converged in the nation’s capital. Led by figures like Walter W. Waters, they established camps on the outskirts of Washington, hoping to leverage their presence to influence Congress to pass legislation for the immediate payment of their bonuses. As summer progressed, their numbers swelled to around 43,000 individuals, creating a significant and peaceful encampment.
Events Leading to the Dispersal
By July 1932, tensions were escalating. Although many veterans were peaceful, the presence of the large encampment became a concern for Washington officials. President Herbert Hoover initially appealed for calm and suggested a congressional solution. However, when Congress voted against the payout, temperatures rose and frustrations mounted among the veterans, leading to a need for military intervention.
The Dispersal of the Bonus Army
On July 28, 1932, U.S. troops, under the command of General Douglas MacArthur, were ordered to disperse the Bonus Army. The situation turned violent as troops moved in with cavalry and bayonets, using tear gas to clear the camps. The resulting chaos led to a horrific scene of veterans and their families being forcibly removed from their makeshift shelters, resulting in injuries and even deaths. This tragic act shocked the nation and underscored the deep divide between the government and citizens during this economic crisis.
The Aftermath of the Dispersal
The dispersal of the Bonus Army left a lingering impact on American society. Public opinion turned against President Hoover as images of veterans being attacked circulated widely, highlighting the desperation of a population in distress. This event solidified the narrative of the government being disconnected from the struggles of its citizens, a sentiment that contributed to the changing political landscape in subsequent elections.
Legacies of the Bonus Army
In the years following the dispersal, public sentiment for veterans changed leading to increased advocacy for their rights and benefits. In 1936, Congress would eventually pass the G.I. Bill, which provided various forms of support to veterans returning from war. The legacy of the Bonus Army is remembered as an essential moment in highlighting the struggles of many Americans during the Great Depression and the ongoing dialogue about governmental responsibilities to its citizens.
Fun Fact
Bonus Army’s Interesting Fact
Despite being violently dispersed, the Bonus Army successfully drew national attention to the plight of veterans, influencing future legislation and changing opinions about veteran care in the U.S.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on the Bonus Army
For those interested in learning more about the Bonus Army and their impact, consider the book "The Bonus Army: An American Legion's Fight for Their Veteran's Rights" by John W. Waller or "The Great Depression: A Diary" by Benjamin Roth, which paints a vivid picture of the struggles during that era.
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