Military Recruitment Quotes



The Shakers were an American religion and pacifists Lincoln learned. He was so impressed with their sincerity and way of life that he exempted Shaker men from the draft—the first conscientious objectors formally recognized in America. However, Lincoln made the statement to the Shakers which greatly impressed them and caused much reflection. Quakers had been pacifists also, but until the Civil War Draft there was no mechanism to test.


Washington quickly changed his mind when he realized that there were many Negroes fighting for his army and acquitting themselves very well. The pressure for troops and the English invitation to Negroes to help them and get their freedom, caused Washington to flip-flop on this point to the distress of most of his fellow Southerners. See {614220}.


loyalty oath to the King of England His “Ethiopian Regiment” was the first Black military regiment in North America. Soon after, Rhode Island organized a Black military unit—see {613949}.


Ellis Island was the facility that all East Coast immigrants to America came through. Army recruiting took place right there. Irish Immigrants in particular were targeted by the army. For many Irishmen, it was a very attractive prospect. They received a clean uniform, food, and an immediate pay check and provided a security not offered in the civilian economy. However, they were immediately shipped off to Mexico for the war effort.