First Draft Lottery since World War II

Historical Significance and Background

On December 1, 1969, the United States Selective Service System conducted two lottery drawings for men born between 1944 and 1950 to determine the order of the draft for the first time since World War II. This was the first draft conducted in the United States since World War II.

The 1960s were a period of significant social and political change in the United States. The Vietnam War sparked a major debate and social movement in the country. The draft system had a significant impact on sending young men to the Vietnam War.

Previously, young men who wanted to join the military volunteered. However, the increasing need for resources and soldiers for the Vietnam War required a series of changes to increase the number of individuals called for military service.

Development of the Event

Conducting the Lottery Drawing

On December 1, 1969, the United States Selective Service System conducted two lottery drawings to determine the order of the draft. These drawings ranked men born between 1944 and 1950 based on their birth dates. Higher numbers meant not being selected for the draft.

Checking the Records and Political Effects

The rankings determined through the lottery drawing determined the likelihood of young men being called for military service. This had a significant impact on American society. Anti-war movements and student protests sparked protests against the lottery. Many young men opposed the draft and voiced their opposition to the Vietnam War.

Consequences and Effects

The lottery drawing deeply affected the social and political impact of the Vietnam War. Short-term effects include many young men seeking ways to avoid going to war and the strengthening of anti-war movements. Long-term consequences resulted in changes to the military system and the end of compulsory military service.

The lottery drawing is considered a turning point in the military system in the United States. This event led to social and political changes and helped many individuals opposing the Vietnam War to make their voices heard.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present

The lottery drawing is recorded as an important event in the history of the United States during the Vietnam War era. This event contributed to questioning the compulsory military service and the strengthening of anti-war movements.

Today, the military system and opposition to war continue to be discussed. The lottery drawing is considered part of the changes aimed at ending compulsory military service and reducing the obligation for young people to go to war. This event still maintains its significance with its political and social impacts on the military system.

The lottery drawing represents a significant turning point in the history of the United States. This event is part of the social activism and political changes during the Vietnam War era and still has its effects today.