World War I Soldier in Uniform: 1917 Recruitment Moment

The photograph titled On RECRUIT, taken on May 30, 1917, captures a pivotal moment during World War I, a conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918 and significantly altered global dynamics. This image, produced by the Bain News Service, provides a window into the military recruitment efforts of the time. As countries mobilized their forces, recruitment drives became critical to bolster military ranks, with imagery playing a key role in encouraging enlistment.

The early years of the war were characterized by a desperate need for soldiers, leading to various recruitment strategies that appealed to patriotism and duty. This photograph reflects those strategies, highlighting a period when many young men answered the call to serve. It serves as a historic snapshot, reminding us of the collective effort and sacrifice made during a tumultuous time in history.