1917-1918- It is estimated that more than 12,000 American Indians served in the United States military in World War I. Approximately 600 Oklahoma Indians, mostly Choctaw and Cherokee, were assigned to the 142nd Infantry of the 36th Texas-Oklahoma National Guard Division. The 142nd saw action in France and its soldiers were widely recognized for their contributions in battle. Four men from this unit were awarded the Croix de Guerre, while others received the Church War Cross for gallantry.
1917-1918-Navajo Code Talkers:These talkers were the key success to America because the Navajo Marines who created a secret code that made it possible for the United States to defeat the Japanese in World War II and end the war. No else could understand the complexity of the Navajo language, specifically the Germans or the Japanese.
During the World War I Era, Native Americans became very involved in American life:
In World War I, one‐half of the Native American population were not U.S. citizens and were not eligible for the draft.
Volunteer service was rewarded with U.S. citizenship.
Including draftees and volunteers, some 10,000 Indians served in World War I.
The service of these Indians contributed to the decision of Congress in 1924 to grant U.S. citizenship to all Native Americans.
Also, Native American women served as members of the Army Nurse Corps.
The Code talkers proved to be one of America`s greatest advantages during the war, which led to a positive relationship between the two groups.
The war effort marked a turning point in the relations of Indians with the larger American society.
It resulted in the largest migration of Native American males out of reservations.