African Americans, who had participated in every military conflict since the inception of the United States, enlisted and prepared for involvement in WWI. However, many of those who enlisted or were drafted found themselves in non-combative support roles. The exception were the soldiers who fought on the front lines in the 92nd and 93rd Infantry Divisions.

As the people of the United States watched World War I ignite across Europe, African American citizens saw an opportunity to win the respect of their white neighbors. America was a segregated society and African Americans were considered, at best, second class citizens.

During World War One the 369th Infantry Regiment of the US Army gained a fearsome reputation. One of the most effective fighting units they spent more time in the frontline and suffered more casualties than any other American regiment.

In 1917, as America entered into the Great War, Indigenous responses to the war effort were diverse and complex. The Great War tested Native Americans’ ambiguous position both inside and outside the American nation.

More than 12,000 American Indians served in the war, generally as scouts, snipers and code-talkers. Those who didn’t serve in combat helped the war effort just as other Americans did.

Stories and commentary written by North American Indians who served in the military during the First World War, as well as photos of these and other soldiers who returned to the US after the war.

The centennial anniversary of American involvement in World War I permits a closer look at the diverse racial and ethnic groups who participated in the Great War.

Private Marcelino Serna did not receive the Medal of Honor due to him being a Mexican American and an immigrant.