This project aimed to provide a deeper understanding of how Native American soldiers of the First World War were perceived by the world around them. Primary source materials, ranging from military reports, government publications, newspapers, and were compiled utilizing both physical and digital archives; they were then analyzed with the intent of better understanding how various groups and institutions within the United States viewed these soldiers. Research on Native American participation within the First World War is scarce, and this project aimed to add to the present limited scholarship through this analysis of perceptions. The question of perceptions is deeply rooted in the history of interactions between Native Americans and the U.S. government, resulting in two “doctrines.” The first was the doctrine of assimilation, which viewed military service as a manner of integrating Native Americans into mainstream society. The second was the doctrine of distinction, which viewed Native Americans as having inherent qualities that made them naturally proficient for warfare. Both doctrines held considerable influence by the onset of the First World War. White newspapers and lower-ranking officers of the military often viewed Native soldiers as being inherent “warriors,” with qualities that made them uniquely prepared for modern warfare. On the contrary, federal institutions saw military service as reflections of their efforts to assimilate Native Americans; however, Natives themselves saw military service as an expression of their dual identities, being both Native and American.
This project allowed me to implement the research and communications skills that I have learned as a History and American Studies major, also providing the opportunity to conduct an archive visit at Indiana University. The ability to independently use these skills has not only fostered my appreciation for this work, but provided a better understanding of how I may use these skills in future research-based careers.
Author(s): Jaden Singh, USS 2023 Summer Scholar
Advisor(s): Cameron Shriver, History Department
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