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usnatarchives · 1 hour
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⚾ Before #WWII, women played #baseball in junior and minor leagues throughout the United States. In 1930, Universal News highlighted a "All-Girls Teams in Slug-fest," a game played between Niles and Oakland. ⚾
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usnatarchives · 3 days
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A Woman’s War
Personnel shortages led the military to enlist more than 300,000 women volunteers during World War II. All of the military services created posters that encouraged women to join up. Thousands were recruited to serve as nurses. But many more chose to enter one of the women’s auxiliaries formed by the services.
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Over 150,000 served in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC/WAAC) in jobs ranging from telephone, radio, and teletype operator to cryptographer, medical technician, sheet metal worker, and aircraft mechanic.
The Navy recruited over 80,000 WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service). They worked as clerks, secretaries, cryptologists, air traffic controllers, meteorologists, and translators.
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The Marine Corps Women’s Reserve, established in February 1943, enrolled 23,000 women during the war.
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While the Coast Guard Women’s Reserve enlisted more than 10,000 between 1942 and 1946.
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Like some of the wartime posters that encouraged women to the join the industrial workforce, military recruitment posters sometimes offered mixed messages. Prevailing biases regarding gender roles dictated that women not serve in combat roles.
Learn more about this collection: https://fdr.artifacts.archives.gov/advancedsearch/Objects/invno%3AMO%202005.13.17*/images?page=1
Follow along throughout 2024 as we feature more #TheArtOfWar WWII posters from our Digital Artifact Collection.
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usnatarchives · 3 days
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"Pfc. Johnnie Mae Welton, Negro WAC, laboratory technician trainee, conducts an experiment in the serology laboratory sf the Fort Jackson Station Hospital, Fort Jackson, SC."
Record Group 111: Records of the Office of the Chief Signal OfficerSeries: Photographs of American Military Activities
This black and white photograph shows Pfc. Johnnie Mae Walton, an African American woman in the Women’s Army Corp, sitting at a lab table.  She wears a military uniform and her hair is tied back.  She appears to be blowing through a straw into a test tube.  Three racks of test tubes are on the lab table before her.
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usnatarchives · 9 days
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"It's a tradition with us, mister!" - Volunteer for the #RevWarVets mission today.
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Under the alias Robert Shurtliff, Deborah Gannett served valiantly for over two years. She braved the battlefield at Tarrytown, was wounded, and stood witness to Cornwallis’s surrender. Remarkably, she is believed to be the only woman to receive a pension for her own service in the Revolution.
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This story is just one of many waiting to be discovered and shared through the #RevWarVets Transcription Project in partnership with the National Park Service.
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Your participation can make a huge difference. By joining our transcription project, you help bring these vital stories of our first veterans to light, ensuring they are remembered and honored.
Get started today!
Project Page: https://www.archives.gov/citizen-archivist/missions/revolutionary-war-pension-files
Deborah’s Catalog entry:
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usnatarchives · 10 days
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We're on a mission to make history even more accessible and engaging for you!
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From the towering majesty of the Golden Gate Bridge to the innovative designs of the Hoover Dam, the National Archives Catalog houses incredible records of engineering feats that have shaped our landscape. Discover the stories behind these monumental projects through detailed blueprints, captivating photographs, and personal accounts of the men and women who turned bold visions into reality.
We’re on a mission to make history even more accessible and engaging for you! Have thoughts on how we can improve our Catalog?
Take a moment to fill out our survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NARAnewcatfb
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usnatarchives · 14 days
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Katherine Johnson: The Mathematician Who Launched Astronauts into Space and Women into STEM 🚀👩‍🚀
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In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where men first dreamed of reaching the stars, Katherine Johnson calculated the path that would get them there. This story isn't just about trajectories and orbits; it's about a woman whose brilliance in mathematics helped break the barriers of space and gender.
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Johnson's journey began in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, where her curiosity and intelligence shone from an early age. Despite encountering segregation and sexism, she charted a course that would lead her to NASA, where her skills became indispensable to the success of the U.S. space program. Her calculations were critical to the success of the Mercury missions, including John Glenn's pioneering orbital flight, for which he specifically requested Johnson verify the computer's numbers. "If she says they're good," Glenn said, "then I'm ready to go."
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But Johnson's contributions went beyond Mercury. She also played a role in the Apollo missions, including the first lunar landing, and her work on orbital mechanics laid the groundwork for the Space Shuttle program and plans for a Mars mission.
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Her legacy is a beacon for women and people of color in STEM, symbolizing the power of intelligence and perseverance to overcome societal constraints. Johnson's story teaches us that the path to the stars is paved with determination, hard work, and an unwavering belief in one's own abilities.
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Katherine Johnson's calculations helped lead humanity to the moon, but her impact extends far beyond the numbers. She charted a course for future generations of women in STEM, proving that the sky is not the limit—it's just the beginning. As we look up at the stars, we remember her legacy, not just as a mathematician, but as a trailblazer who launched us into a new era of exploration and equality.
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usnatarchives · 17 days
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The banners went up today for our new exhibit!
“Power & Light: Russell Lee’s Coal Survey” features more than 200 of Russell Lee’s photographs of coal miners and their families.
The man on the banner is Harry Fain, who was working as a coal loader for Inland Steel Company in Wheelwright, Kentucky, in 1946. He and his family appear in photographs throughout the exhibit.
“Power & Light” is free and opens to the public on March 16 in the Lawrence F. O’Brien Gallery in the National Archives Building in Washington, DC.
Visit museum.archives.gov for details.
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usnatarchives · 17 days
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"It's a tradition with us, mister!" - Volunteer for the #RevWarVets mission today.
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Under the alias Robert Shurtliff, Deborah Gannett served valiantly for over two years. She braved the battlefield at Tarrytown, was wounded, and stood witness to Cornwallis’s surrender. Remarkably, she is believed to be the only woman to receive a pension for her own service in the Revolution.
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This story is just one of many waiting to be discovered and shared through the #RevWarVets Transcription Project in partnership with the National Park Service.
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Your participation can make a huge difference. By joining our transcription project, you help bring these vital stories of our first veterans to light, ensuring they are remembered and honored.
Get started today!
Project Page: https://www.archives.gov/citizen-archivist/missions/revolutionary-war-pension-files
Deborah’s Catalog entry:
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usnatarchives · 20 days
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The WAVES of Change: Women's Valiant Service in World War II 🌊
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When the tides of World War II swelled, an unprecedented wave of women stepped forward to serve their country, becoming an integral part of the U.S. Navy through the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) program. This initiative not only marked a pivotal moment in military history but also set the stage for the transformation of women's roles in the armed forces and society at large. The WAVES program, initiated in 1942, was a beacon of change, showcasing the strength, skill, and patriotism of American women during a time of global turmoil.
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The inception of WAVES was a response to the urgent need for additional military personnel during World War II. With many American men deployed overseas, the United States faced a shortage of skilled workers to support naval operations on the home front. The WAVES program was spearheaded by figures such as Lieutenant Commander Mildred H. McAfee, the first woman commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy. Under her leadership, WAVES members were trained in various specialties, including communications, intelligence, supply, medicine, and logistics, proving that women could perform with as much competence and dedication as their male counterparts.
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The impact of the WAVES program extended far beyond the war effort. Throughout their service, WAVES members faced and overcame significant societal and institutional challenges. At the time, the idea of women serving in the military was met with skepticism and resistance; however, the exemplary service of the WAVES shattered stereotypes and demonstrated the invaluable contributions women could make in traditionally male-dominated fields. Their work during the war not only contributed significantly to the Allies' victory but also laid the groundwork for the integration of women into the regular armed forces.
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The legacy of the WAVES program is a testament to the courage and determination of the women who served. Their contributions went largely unrecognized for many years, but the program's impact on military and gender norms has been profound. The WAVES paved the way for future generations of women in the military, demonstrating that service and sacrifice know no gender. Today, women serve in all branches of the U.S. military, in roles ranging from combat positions to high-ranking officers, thanks in no small part to the trail blazed by the WAVES.
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The WAVES program was more than just a wartime necessity; it was a watershed moment in the history of women's rights and military service. The women of WAVES not only supported the United States during a critical period but also propelled forward the conversation about gender equality in the armed forces and beyond. Their legacy is a reminder of the strength and resilience of women who rise to the challenge, breaking barriers and making waves in pursuit of a better world.
Read more: https://prologue.blogs.archives.gov/2023/11/06/historic-staff-spotlight-eunice-whyte-navy-veteran-of-both-world-wars/
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usnatarchives · 20 days
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March is #WomensHistoryMonth and March 8 is International Women’s Day. The National Archives is celebrating with special programs on women throughout the month.
Learn more about these programs and our extensive online Women's History Month resources.
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usnatarchives · 20 days
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Happy International Women's Day
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usnatarchives · 22 days
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“I was in Monmouth battle and many others and received a wound in my face from a ball, the scar of which is still visible.” – Robert Green, veteran
Robert Green gave this testimony at the age of 65 when applying for a federal pension for his service. Green’s story embodies the courage and resilience of African American patriots during the Revolutionary War. Wounded at the Battle of Monmouth, Green’s journey is a testament to the sacrifices made for the liberties we cherish today.
We invite you to be a part of a monumental effort to bring these stories to light. By joining our Revolutionary War Veterans Transcription Project, you’re not just transcribing documents; you’re helping to preserve and honor the legacy of African American soldiers.
You can ensure their stories, their sacrifice, and their dreams are not forgotten. Dive into history, transcribe with us, and help make the legacy of heroes like Robert Green accessible for generations to come.
Visit https://www.archives.gov/citizen-archivist/missions/revolutionary-war-pension-files for details!
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usnatarchives · 24 days
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With the National Archives Catalog, you can dive into the fascinating stories of American women who soared to new heights in aviation! The National Archives Catalog reveals the daring and determination of pioneers like Amelia Earhart, Ruth Law, and Bessie Coleman, who broke barriers and set new records in the sky.
Your insights matter to us! Are you a Catalog user and have thoughts on how we can improve the Catalog?
Take a moment to fill out our survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NARAnewcatfb
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usnatarchives · 1 month
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Charles Alston: A Luminary of the Harlem Renaissance and Beyond
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In the heart of the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and 1930s, Charles Alston emerged as a beacon of creativity and activism, blending the vibrancy of African American culture with profound social commentary. As a pioneering African American artist and educator, Alston’s legacy is celebrated for its dynamic impact on Black art and cultural expression during the 20th century. His work, which includes murals, illustrations, and sculptures, showcased his contributions to the Harlem Renaissance and his role in uplifting African American heroes through art.
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Alston’s murals, commissioned by the Federal Art Project of the New Deal-era Works Progress Administration, adorned public spaces, bringing the narratives of the African American experience to a broader audience. His role during World War II, creating illustrations for the Office of War Information, further exemplified his commitment to using art as a tool for advocacy.
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These illustrations, many of which are preserved in the National Archives, underscored the contributions of African Americans to the war effort, challenging the racial prejudices of the era. Alston also designed and painted murals at the Harlem Hospital and the Golden State Mutual Life Insurance Building. In 1990, Alston's bust of Martin Luther King Jr. became the first image of an African American displayed at the White House.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Alston’s mentorship of future luminaries like Romare Bearden highlight his dedication to nurturing the next generation of artists. This mentorship underscored his belief in art’s power to foster community, inspire change, and bridge cultural divides in the United States. His influence extended to the civil rights movement, where his art continued to serve as a catalyst for social justice.
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Charles Alston’s work remains a testament to his visionary blend of art and activism. For those interested in exploring Alston’s enduring impact and the rich tapestry of the Harlem Renaissance, the National Archives offers a treasure trove of resources:
Fully Digitized Artworks: https://catalog.archives.gov/search?availableOnline=true&page=2&q=Charles%20Alston&typeOfMaterials=Photographs%20and%20other%20Graphic%20Materials
https://catalog.archives.gov/search?availableOnline=true&page=2&q=Charles%20Alston&typeOfMaterials=Photographs%20and%20other%20Graphic%20Materials
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usnatarchives · 1 month
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Skyward Bound: The Willa Beatrice Brown Story ✈
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Celebrating Black History Month, we honor Willa Beatrice Brown, a trailblazer in aviation and civil rights activism. Willa Brown, born in 1906 in Glasgow, Kentucky, shattered racial and gender barriers in the skies and became the first African American woman to earn a commercial pilot’s license in the United States. Her unwavering dedication to integrating aviation programs and empowering future pilots through education and advocacy has cemented her as a pivotal figure in American history.
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Willa Brown’s journey began with a passion for flying, leading her to earn her pilot’s license in 1938. Together with her husband, Cornelius Coffey, she founded the Coffey School of Aeronautics in Chicago, where they trained African American men and women, providing a foundation for the illustrious Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.
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Brown’s advocacy extended to her role as the first African American woman to receive a commission as a lieutenant in the Civil Air Patrol and her political endeavors to integrate the armed forces, culminating in President Harry Truman signing Executive Order 9981 in 1948 to desegregate the military.
For those interested in exploring more about Willa Beatrice Brown’s incredible life and impact, the National Archives holds a treasure trove of resources:
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usnatarchives · 1 month
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Valor Unbound: The Legacy of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment
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Happy Black History Month!
This week, we are highlighting the honor and bravery of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, one of the first African American units in the Civil War. Established in 1863, following the Emancipation Proclamation, the formation of the regiment marked a pivotal moment in military history, challenging racial barriers and setting a precedent for the inclusion of African Americans in the United States military.
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Under the leadership of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, the 54th Massachusetts consisted of free African American men and escaped slaves eager to fight for the Union and the freedom of their fellow Americans. Their most notable engagement, at Fort Wagner, South Carolina, showcased their courage and determination. Though the battle was fierce and the regiment suffered heavy casualties, their sacrifice significantly bolstered the Union’s morale and support for African American soldiers.
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The legacy of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment extends beyond their military achievements. By demonstrating the valor and capability of African American soldiers, they helped change public opinion and policies, leading to the enlistment of nearly 200,000 African American men in the Union forces by the war’s end.
Additional resources:
https://www.archives.gov/exhibits/american_originals/54thmass.html
https://prologue.blogs.archives.gov/2018/02/01/black-history-month-the-54th-massachusetts/
https://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/blacks-civil-war/compiled-service-records.html
https://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/blacks-civil-war/douglass-sons.html
https://prologue.blogs.archives.gov/2021/07/09/facial-hair-friday-robert-gould-shaw/
https://docsteach.org/documents/document/casualty-list-54th-massachusetts-assault-on-fort-wagner
https://www.archives.gov/research/african-americans
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usnatarchives · 2 months
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Labor. [African-American] women at work in lumber yards.
Record Group 86: Records of the Women's BureauSeries: General Photographic File
Original caption: Labor. [African-American] women at work in lumber yards. [African-American] women, dressed in men's clothes, lifting heavy pieces of lumber.
This black and white photograph shows two African-American women in overalls lifting long pieces of lumber.  They are posing for the camera.  The woman on the left stands with one hand on her hip and looks away from the camera.  The woman on the right looks right into the camera.
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