Skip to Main Content

The Draft | The History of America's Draft

The draft debate has defined our nation’s history. What do we owe our fellow Americans?

Aired 04/27/2015 | Rating TV-PG

Stories of Service

The Draft | The History of America's Draft

Clip: Episode 3 | 2m 12s

The draft debate has defined our nation’s history. What do we owe our fellow Americans?

America’s place on the world stage has always depended on its military might, and its military might has always depended on the draft. But the draft has stirred up controversy since America’s founding, throughout its history, and continues to do so today. What does it mean to serve one’s country in a time of war? What do you owe your fellow Americans?

Aired 04/27/2015 | Rating TV-PG

Problems with Closed Captions? Closed Captioning Feedback

Problems with Closed Captions? Closed Captioning Feedback

The Draft | Preview

How one controversial issue — who serves in the military — defines America. (30s)

The Draft | The Origins of the Vietnam War

Anti-communist idealism pulled America into a war in Vietnam—and young men into the draft.

The Draft | Up in Flames: Draft Card Burning in NYC

Draft cards went up in flames as protestors clashed in an act of civil disobedience. (2m 38s)

The Draft | WWI: Wilson & the Selective Service Act

The Selective Service Act raised 3 million troops for WWI with a more equitable system.

Providing Support for PBS.org

Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorship

Support for PBS provided by:

Sign in with Email

or

Continue with GoogleContinue with FacebookContinue with Apple

By creating an account, you acknowledge that PBS may share your information with our member stations and our respective service providers, and that you have read and understand the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Are you sure you want to remove null from My List?