Did the Bonus Army ever get their money? It’s a question that has lingered in the American psyche for more than 80 years. The Bonus Army, a group of World War I veterans, marched on Washington D.C. in 1932, demanding the bonuses that were promised to them by the government. Their protests ultimately resulted in a violent confrontation with the military, leaving many wounded and homeless. But did they ever get the money they were fighting for?
The story of the Bonus Army is one that highlights the plight of veterans and the sometimes callous attitude of the government towards those who served their country. It’s also a story of perseverance and the power of protest. Many Americans are curious about whether the Bonus Army ever received their promised bonuses, and what impact their protests had on the wider political landscape of the time.
While the Bonus Army protests have largely faded from public consciousness, their legacy lives on. It’s a story that still resonates today, as we grapple with questions of how to honor those who have served our country and how to build a fairer society. So, did the Bonus Army ever get their money? The answer is complex, and requires an understanding of the historical and social context in which their protest took place.
The Bonus Army March on Washington
The Bonus Army refers to the gathering of thousands of World War I veterans who marched on Washington, D.C., in 1932. These veterans had been promised a bonus by the government, which they were due to receive in 1945. However, given the economic difficulties of the Great Depression, many veterans found themselves struggling financially and were eager to receive their bonus sooner. As a result, they decided to march on the capital and demand that the government pay out their bonuses early.
- The Bonus Army consisted of approximately 17,000 World War I veterans, along with their families and supporters.
- The march began in Portland, Oregon, and gained momentum as it moved eastward, picking up additional participants along the way.
- When the Bonus Army arrived in Washington, D.C., they set up a large encampment on the National Mall.
The Bonus Army’s presence in D.C. drew widespread attention, including from newspapers and political leaders. President Herbert Hoover initially refused to meet with the Bonus Army, arguing that it was his duty to prevent “riot and violence” in the capital. However, as the situation escalated and tensions increased, the president eventually authorized the use of force to disperse the encampment.
On July 28, 1932, federal troops advanced on the Bonus Army encampment, using tear gas and tanks to force the veterans and their families out. The violence resulted in several injuries and even deaths. Many of the veterans and their families fled the city, while others were arrested and imprisoned.
| Key Events of the Bonus Army March on Washington |
|---|
| Veterans began marching on Washington to demand early payment of their bonuses. |
| The Bonus Army established a large encampment on the National Mall. |
| President Hoover authorized the use of force to disperse the Bonus Army encampment. |
| Federal troops used tear gas and tanks to force the veterans and their families out. |
| The violence resulted in several injuries and deaths. |
The Bonus Army march on Washington was a pivotal moment in American history, highlighting the deep economic challenges of the Great Depression and the government’s inability to effectively address them. While the veterans did not ultimately receive their bonuses early, the legacy of their protest lived on for many years, serving as a powerful symbol of the struggles faced by ordinary Americans during this tumultuous period.
Causes of the Great Depression
The Great Depression was the most devastating economic downturn in world history. It started in 1929 and lasted until the late 1930s, affecting millions of people worldwide. There were many factors that contributed to this economic crisis, including:
- Stock Market Crash: The stock market crashed on October 24, 1929, which is also known as Black Thursday. This was the main trigger for the Great Depression.
- Banking System Failures: Many banks failed during this time, and people lost their savings. This led to a decrease in consumer spending.
- Overproduction and Underconsumption: The 1920s were a time of great prosperity, and many businesses expanded their production. However, people didn’t have the money to buy all of the goods, which led to overproduction and a decrease in demand.
These factors combined caused an economic collapse that had a ripple effect across the world. Both businesses and individuals suffered, and the unemployment rate reached an all-time high. Many people were left without jobs, food, or shelter.
The government attempted to intervene and mitigate the crisis by implementing many relief programs, but the results were mixed. One of the most famous relief programs was the Bonus Army.
| Bonus Army | Outcome |
|---|---|
| The Bonus Army was a group of World War I veterans who went to Washington D.C. to demand their bonus pay that was promised to them in 1945. | The Bonus Army marched to Washington D.C. in the summer of 1932. President Hoover ordered the U.S. Army to clear the veteran’s encampment, which led to a violent clash. The Bonus Army did not get their money, and several veterans were injured or killed. |
The Bonus Army was a tragic event during the Great Depression. The government’s failure to pay the promised bonus money was a reflection of the economic and social turmoil of the time.
Hoovervilles: The Shantytowns of Depression-era America
During the Great Depression, many Americans lost their homes and were forced to live in shantytowns known as Hoovervilles. These makeshift communities were named after President Herbert Hoover, who was blamed for the economic crisis.
Hoovervilles were often located in public parks or on the outskirts of cities. They were composed of makeshift shelters made from whatever materials people could find, such as cardboard, scrap metal, and old newspapers. The living conditions in Hoovervilles were terrible, with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
Despite the challenging living conditions, many Hooverville residents formed tight-knit communities and supported one another through the hardships of the Great Depression. They would often share food and resources and come together to advocate for better living conditions.
Characteristics of Hoovervilles
- Shelters made from scrap materials
- Limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities
- Located in public parks or on the outskirts of cities
The Rise and Fall of Hoovervilles
Hoovervilles began to appear in the early years of the Great Depression, and their numbers increased rapidly as unemployment rates soared. At their peak, there were hundreds of Hoovervilles across the country.
As the New Deal programs of President Franklin D. Roosevelt began to take effect, the number of Hoovervilles began to decline. With the implementation of programs such as the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps, many unemployed Americans were given jobs and housing through government-funded programs.
By the late 1930s, most Hoovervilles had been dismantled or abandoned as their residents found other housing options. However, the legacy of these shantytowns remains an important reminder of the challenges faced by Americans during the Great Depression.
Examples of Hoovervilles
Hoovervilles were located in various cities across America, including:
| City | Name of Hooverville |
|---|---|
| New York City | Central Park Hooverville |
| Seattle | Hooverville |
| Los Angeles | Hobohemia |
Each of these Hoovervilles had a unique history and community, but they all served as a symbol of the economic struggles faced by Americans during the Great Depression.
The New Deal: Roosevelt’s response to the Great Depression
The Great Depression of the 1930s led to widespread unemployment and poverty in the United States. President Franklin D. Roosevelt responded to this crisis by implementing a series of economic and social programs known as the New Deal. One of the primary goals of the New Deal was to create jobs and boost economic growth.
Did the Bonus Army ever get their money?
- The Bonus Army was a group of World War I veterans who marched on Washington, D.C. in 1932. They were demanding early payment of a bonus that was due to them in 1945.
- The Bonus Army set up camps and protested peacefully in Washington, D.C.
- President Roosevelt initially opposed early payment of the bonus, but eventually agreed to provide the veterans with some financial assistance.
The Works Progress Administration
To create jobs, President Roosevelt established the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1935. The WPA employed millions of people on public works projects, such as building schools and hospitals, and improving roads and bridges. This helped to stimulate economic growth and reduce unemployment.
The WPA also had a cultural component, funding projects in the arts, theater, and literature. This program helped to support artists and writers during the Great Depression, and produced some of the most iconic works of American art and literature.
The Social Security Act
The Social Security Act was signed into law by President Roosevelt in 1935. This program provided financial assistance to the elderly, disabled, and unemployed, and supported families with dependent children. The Social Security Act represented a major shift in the role of government in the United States, and helped to create a social safety net for millions of Americans.
Conclusion
The New Deal represented a significant response to the crisis of the Great Depression. President Roosevelt implemented a range of economic and social programs that helped to create jobs and support the most vulnerable members of society. While not every program was successful, the New Deal had a profound impact on the economy and the lives of millions of Americans.
| Key Programs of the New Deal | Year(s) Enacted |
|---|---|
| Civilian Conservation Corps | 1933-1942 |
| Works Progress Administration | 1935-1943 |
| National Youth Administration | 1935-1943 |
| Public Works Administration | 1933-1939 |
The key programs of the New Deal helped to create jobs, support the arts and culture, and improve infrastructure in the United States. While some programs were temporary, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps, others, such as Social Security, continue to provide benefits to Americans today.
Bonus Expeditionary Force veterans fight for compensation
The Bonus Expeditionary Force (BEF), more commonly known as the Bonus Army, was a group of World War I veterans who marched on Washington DC in 1932 to demand payment of a bonus they were promised but never received. The BEF consisted of around 43,000 veterans and their families, many of whom were suffering from poverty and unemployment during the Great Depression.
- The BEF’s demands were initially rejected by the government, but their numbers and the media attention they received put pressure on Congress to reconsider. Eventually, the House of Representatives passed a bill approving the payment of the bonus in 1932, but the Senate rejected it.
- The BEF refused to disband and set up camp in Anacostia, a poor neighborhood in Washington DC. They were forcibly evicted by the US Army on July 28, 1932, in a violent confrontation known as the Battle of Anacostia Flats. Several people were injured and two veterans and a baby died.
- The BEF’s protest and the subsequent violence outraged many Americans, and the government came under increasing pressure to find a solution. In 1933, President Franklin Roosevelt authorized the early payment of the bonus, but only to veterans who could prove financial need. This excluded many of the original members of the BEF, who had already spent their savings and were still struggling to make ends meet.
Despite the partial payment of the bonus, many BEF veterans continued to fight for full compensation for years. Some successfully convinced Congress to pass legislation granting them additional benefits, such as the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 (also known as the GI Bill), which provided educational and employment opportunities to World War II veterans.
Today, the legacy of the Bonus Army lives on through organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the American Legion, which advocate for the rights and benefits of veterans.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1932 | Bonus Army marches on Washington DC to demand payment of promised bonus |
| 1932 | The House of Representatives passes a bill approving payment of the bonus, but the Senate rejects it |
| 1932 | Bonus Army camps in Anacostia and is forcibly evicted by the US Army in the Battle of Anacostia Flats |
| 1933 | President Roosevelt authorizes early payment of the bonus, but only to veterans in financial need |
| 1944 | The Servicemen’s Readjustment Act (GI Bill) is passed, providing educational and employment opportunities to World War II veterans |
Overall, the BEF’s fight for compensation represents a significant moment in the history of veteran rights and the power of organized protest to effect change.
The Role of the Military in Suppressing the Bonus Army
On July 28, 1932, the Bonus Army marched on Washington D.C. with the goal of getting immediate payment of their promised bonuses for serving in World War I. However, President Herbert Hoover ordered the military to remove the protesters from the city. This led to a violent confrontation between the Bonus Army and the military, resulting in several deaths and injuries.
- The military used tanks, tear gas, and bayonets to remove the protesters from the city. This excessive use of force led to public outrage and damaged the military’s reputation.
- The Bonus Army veterans were treated violently and with disrespect, despite their heroic service to the country during World War I.
- The violence used by the military created a rift between the government and the American people, who felt betrayed and disillusioned by their treatment.
The government’s response to the Bonus Army protests and the military’s role in suppressing the movement were a turning point in American history. The brutality of the military in handling the protesters fueled public anger and led to the government rethinking its policies towards veterans.
The Bonus Army protests and the military’s involvement also highlighted the growing divide between the government and the American people. The harsh response to the protests further undermined public trust in the government and contributed to the widespread discontent that defined the Great Depression era.
| Actions taken by the military | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Used tanks, tear gas, and bayonets to remove protesters | Public outrage, damaged military reputation |
| Treated veterans with disrespect | Undermined public trust in the government |
| Suppressed the Bonus Army protests | Highlighted the growing divide between the government and the American people |
The Bonus Army protests and the military’s role in suppressing them were a dark chapter in American history. However, it also served as a wake-up call for the government to reexamine its policies and prioritize the needs of its citizens, especially the veterans who fought for the country’s freedom.
Legacy of the Bonus Army: Impact on veterans’ rights and benefits
The Bonus Army, also known as the Bonus Expeditionary Force, was a group of approximately 43,000 World War I veterans, their families, and supporters who marched on Washington, D.C. in 1932. They were demanding immediate payment of the bonuses promised to them by the government. The protests were met with resistance, and President Herbert Hoover ordered the army to disperse the Bonus Army camps set up in the city. In the aftermath, several significant changes were made in the way veterans were treated by the government, improving their rights and benefits.
- GI Bill of Rights: One of the most significant legacies of the Bonus Army was the creation of the GI Bill of Rights. This legislation, signed into law in 1944, provided benefits such as low-cost mortgages, education and training allowances, and unemployment compensation to World War II veterans. It was a way of thanking those who served their country and helped them transition to civilian life after the war.
- Veterans’ Affairs: Prior to the Bonus Army protests, veterans’ affairs were not a priority for the government. However, the protests generated a significant amount of public awareness, and it became clear that a more comprehensive approach was needed to address the issues facing veterans. As a result, the Department of Veterans Affairs was established, which as it exists today, is responsible for providing benefits to veterans and their families.
- Veteran Healthcare Programs: The Bonus Army protests also led to the development of healthcare programs specifically for veterans. Today, the Veterans Health Administration provides health care benefits to more than 9 million veterans enrolled in the VA Healthcare System.
The Bonus Army protests were a defining moment in American history, and they had a lasting impact on veterans’ rights and benefits. Thanks to the efforts of the Bonus Army, veterans today enjoy benefits and support that would have been unthinkable before the protests of 1932.
Sources:
| Source | Link |
|---|---|
| History | https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/bonus-army |
| National World War II Museum | https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/gi-bill-rights-legacy-greatest-generation-0 |
| Department of Veterans Affairs | https://www.va.gov/health/ |
Did the Bonus Army Ever Get Their Money FAQs
1. Who were the Bonus Army?
The Bonus Army consisted of World War I veterans who were promised bonuses for their service during the war.
2. What was the bonus that the veterans were promised?
The bonus was worth $1.25 for each day served in the United States and $1.00 for each day served overseas.
3. Did the veterans receive their bonuses after the war?
No, the veterans did not receive their bonuses after the war. The bonuses were supposed to be paid to the veterans in 1945.
4. What did the Bonus Army do to get their bonuses?
The Bonus Army marched to Washington, D.C., in 1932 to demand the immediate payment of their bonuses.
5. Did the Bonus Army get their bonuses after they marched to Washington, D.C.?
No, the Bonus Army did not get their bonuses after they marched to Washington, D.C. They were violently evicted from their makeshift camps by federal troops.
6. Did the veterans eventually receive their bonuses?
Yes, the veterans eventually received their bonuses in 1945, as originally promised.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for taking the time to read about the Bonus Army and their struggle to receive their promised bonuses. It is important to remember the sacrifices that veterans make for our country and to honor their service. Please visit again later for more interesting historical facts and stories.