Native Soldiers

From the Revolutionary War and through the present day, American Indians have proudly served the U.S. Army often without recognition or the benefits of citizenship. During World War I, nearly 12,000 Indigenous Soldiers served in the armed forces with distinction. Their actions to protect the nation focused attention on disparities among indigenous Americans and paved the way for all Indigenous people to enjoy the promise of American citizenship.

Who is a Citizen? 
What is Citizenship?
How did Indigenous communities use military service to achieve equal rights?

Soldier Stories

Cora Elm
Joseph Oklahombi

Articles

World War I Code Talkers

Videos

Virtual Field Trip – Defining “American” : Native American Soldiers in World War I and the Path to Citizenship