Who Were the Bonus Army?
The Bonus Army was a group of World War I veterans who protested in Washington, D.C., during the Great Depression. These veterans were demanding early payment of a cash bonus that the government had promised them for their service. The protest began peacefully but ended in conflict, damaging President Herbert Hoover’s reputation.
What Was the Bonus?
During World War I, Congress promised veterans a bonus (extra money) for their service. This payment was part of the World War Adjusted Compensation Act of 1924, which said veterans would receive the money in 1945. However, during the Great Depression, many veterans were struggling to find jobs and feed their families. They wanted their bonus paid early to help them survive tough times.
The Bonus Army March
In 1932, around 20,000 veterans and their families marched to Washington, D.C., to demand their bonuses. They became known as the Bonus Army. These veterans set up camps and shantytowns near the Capitol building. They hoped to convince Congress to pass a law giving them the money immediately.
The protesters were peaceful and determined. Many carried signs and banners, and some even brought their children. Their efforts brought attention to the hardships faced by veterans and other Americans during the Great Depression.
Congress Says No
The House of Representatives passed a bill to pay the bonuses early, but the Senate voted against it. This decision upset the veterans, but many decided to stay in Washington, hoping to change lawmakers’ minds.
President Herbert Hoover sympathized with the veterans but believed paying the bonus early would harm the government’s finances. He refused to meet with the protesters.
The Violent End to the Protest
Tensions rose in July 1932 when Hoover ordered the government to clear the Bonus Army camps. When police efforts failed, Hoover called in the U.S. Army, led by General Douglas MacArthur, to remove the protesters.
The Army used tear gas and burned down the camps. Several veterans were injured, and two were killed. The violent removal shocked the nation. Many Americans blamed Hoover for the harsh treatment of the veterans, further damaging his reputation.
The Legacy of the Bonus Army
The Bonus Army protest highlighted the struggles of veterans and ordinary Americans during the Great Depression. It also showed how desperate people were for government help during hard times.
In 1936, Congress finally passed a law allowing early payment of the bonuses, overriding a veto by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
The Bonus Army is remembered as a symbol of protest and the demand for justice. Their story reminds us of the sacrifices veterans make and the responsibility governments have to support them, especially in times of crisis.