World War I Drafted Men Parade, September 1917

This photograph captures a momentous occasion on September 4, 1917, as a parade of drafted men marches through the streets amidst the backdrop of World War I. Taken by the Bain News Service, this image illustrates the widespread mobilization occurring in the United States as the nation prepared to enter the global conflict. In the wake of the U.S. declaration of war on Germany, the Selective Service Act was enacted, facilitating the draft of millions of American men into military service.

The scene depicted showcases the faces of those who answered the call to serve, highlighting a diverse group unified by their shared duty to their country. These men, many likely feeling a mix of pride and apprehension, represent a pivotal shift in American society, as civilian life turned toward wartime efforts. The photo serves as a historical snapshot of a transformative era when everyday citizens were called to participate in a war that reshaped the world order.