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Slacker raids, New York, 1918
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Slacker raids, New York, 1918
A truck load of men in boaters who were picked up without registration cards, exempting them from conscription into the U.S army in WW1. They were rounded up, then taken to Armory for examination
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Media ID 4413798
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10433934
Arrest Arrested Boaters Conscription Draft Load Raids Registration Slacker Sweep Truck Ww 1
EDITORS COMMENTS
September 1918: A Historic Slacker Raids Image from New York City This evocative photograph captures a pivotal moment in American history during World War 1. The image shows a truck loaded with men, all wearing boaters, being taken away for examination at the Armory in New York City. This scene represents the culmination of a 'slacker raid,' an effort by the U.S. government to round up men who had evaded the military draft by not registering for conscription. During this period, the United States was deeply involved in the Great War, and the draft was a crucial tool in mobilizing a large and effective military force. However, some men, known as 'slackers,' refused to register or were exempted for various reasons, leading to widespread frustration and concern among the public and the military. In response, the U.S. military and local authorities conducted sweeps to apprehend these men. The photograph depicts a group of men who were arrested during one such raid. They are seen being transported in a truck, their boaters a stark reminder of their civilian status. The men in the photograph were taken to the Armory for examination, where they would be assessed for military service based on their physical and mental health. Those found fit for duty would be conscripted into the army, while others would be exempted due to various reasons, such as age, disability, or essential work. This powerful image offers a glimpse into a fascinating and often overlooked chapter of American history. It serves as a reminder of the complex and sometimes contentious nature of military conscription and the lengths to which governments will go to ensure a sufficient military force during times of war.
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