The Fascinating History of the Bonus Army Protest

What was the Bonus Army protest about?

The Bonus Army protest was demanding early payment of their bonuses for their service in the First World War.

Answer:

The Bonus Army protest was a demonstration by World War I veterans who were demanding early payment of bonuses promised to them for their wartime service.

The Bonus Army protest, also known as the Bonus Expeditionary Force, was a gathering of over 43,000 marchers – made up of veterans and their families – who converged on Washington, D.C. in 1932. These veterans were seeking immediate payment of bonuses due to be paid in 1945 as a compensation for their wartime service. The protest highlighted the economic hardships faced by many Americans during the Great Depression.

The Bonus Army set up camps in the city, but tensions rose as they were met with resistance from government officials. President Herbert Hoover eventually ordered the Army to disperse the veterans, resulting in a violent confrontation. The use of force tarnished Hoover's image and became a factor in his loss in the following election.

This event serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by veterans and the impact of economic hardships on society.