World War I Era US Recruit Inspection, 1915-1920

The image titled Recruit captures a specific moment in time from between 1915 and 1920, a period marked by significant social and military changes in the United States. During this era, the nation was on the brink of involvement in World War I, which would greatly affect its society and military policies. A surge in enlistment efforts was evident as young men were encouraged to join the army, showcasing the urgent call for military service.

Taken by the Bain News Service, this photograph is a reflection of early twentieth-century photographic techniques, particularly the use of glass negatives. This method allowed for detailed and high-quality images, and it was widely utilized among news agencies for documenting historical events. As part of the George Grantham Bain Collection, Recruit stands as a testament to how photography served as a vital tool for capturing and conveying the realities of life during this transformative time in American history.