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The United States has a long history of compulsory military service, dating back to the Revolutionary War. The country has undergone several periods of conscription, also known as the military draft, when the government required young men to serve in the armed forces. In this article, we'll explore the history of the military draft, when it began and ended, as well as eligibility criteria, exemptions, and how to avoid the draft.
When Did the Military Draft Start?
The first military draft in the United States was initiated during the Civil War in 1863. It allowed wealthy individuals to buy their way out of military service by paying a $300 fee. The draft was met with significant opposition, which led to the New York City draft riots in 1863. The draft continued until the end of the Civil War in 1865.
The second draft was initiated during World War I in 1917, and it was the first to include all eligible men, regardless of their social or economic status. The draft continued until the end of the war in 1918.
During World War II, the military draft was reintroduced in 1940. The draft continued until 1973, during which approximately 10 million men were drafted. The Vietnam War was the most controversial war in American history, and the draft was widely unpopular. It led to protests across the country, including the burning of draft cards and resistance to induction.
When Did the Military Draft End?
The last draft call was on December 7, 1972, and the authority to induct expired on June 30, 1973. The date of the last drawing for the lottery was on March 12, 1975. Registration with the Selective Service System was suspended on April 1, 1975, and registrant processing was suspended on January 27, 1976.
Military Draft Eligibility
All male U.S. citizens and male immigrants between the ages of 18 and 25 are required to register for the draft. Females are not currently required to register, although the topic of female draft registration has been debated.
Individuals who are disabled or have certain medical conditions may be exempt from the draft, as well as those who have served in the military before, such as veterans or members of the National Guard or Reserve.
How to Avoid Military Draft
There are several ways to avoid the military draft. One is to be medically disqualified or exempt, as mentioned above. Another is to be a conscientious objector, which means an individual who is morally or religiously opposed to war and is willing to perform alternative service, such as working in a hospital or other non-combatant roles.
One can also avoid the draft by attending college or university full-time, as students are deferred from the draft. In addition, marriage or having children may also result in deferment or exemption from the draft.
Military Draft Medical Exemptions
Individuals with certain medical conditions or disabilities may be exempt from the military draft. Medical conditions that may result in exemption include those that affect vision, hearing, mobility, and mental health. In general, the military is looking for individuals who are physically and mentally fit and able to serve.
Military Draft for Females
Currently, only males are required to register for the military draft. However, the National Commission on Military, National, and Public Service has recommended that female registration be implemented. In 2021, the Senate Armed Services Committee passed a bill that would require women to register for the draft.
Military Draft and Mental Illness
Individuals with certain mental illnesses may be disqualified from military service or exempt from the draft. Mental health conditions that may result in disqualification include bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and severe depression. The military is looking for individuals who are stable and capable of handling the demands of service.
However, it's important to note that not all mental health conditions automatically disqualify an individual from military service. The military may consider each case on an individual basis, and a mental health condition alone may not necessarily be a barrier to military service.
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the mental health of service members, including efforts to address and prevent mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. The military has also implemented programs to support the mental health of service members, such as counseling services and peer support groups.
Conclusion
The military draft has a long and complicated history in the United States. While the draft officially ended in 1973, the Selective Service System remains in place, and young men are still required to register for the draft. Eligibility for the draft is determined by several factors, including age, citizenship status, and medical and mental health conditions. Individuals who are medically disqualified or have certain religious or moral objections to war may be exempt from the draft. The topic of female draft registration is currently being debated, and there is a growing focus on the mental health of service members in the military.
