The Bonus Army March on Washington, D.C.

What was the Bonus Army?

The Bonus Army was the popular name for an assemblage of some 43,000 marchers.

Why did the Bonus Army march on Washington, D.C.?

Can you explain the reasons behind the Bonus Army's decision to march on Washington, D.C.?

Reasons Behind the Bonus Army March on Washington, D.C.

The Bonus Army, composed of World War I veterans and their families, marched on Washington, D.C. in 1932 to demand payment of a bonus for their wartime service.

The Bonus Army was made up of veterans who had served in World War I. These veterans were promised a cash bonus for their service, which was supposed to be paid to them in 1945. However, given the economic hardships of the Great Depression, many veterans were struggling to make ends meet and needed the money sooner.

In response to their urgent need for financial assistance, the Bonus Army decided to march to the nation's capital to petition the government for the immediate payment of their bonuses. The marchers set up camps near the White House and the Capitol building, hoping to bring attention to their cause.

Despite their peaceful intentions, the presence of such a large group of protesters in Washington, D.C. caused concern among government officials. Ultimately, the Bonus Army's demands were not met, and the protesters were forcibly removed from their camps by federal troops under the command of General Douglas MacArthur.

The Bonus Army march on Washington, D.C. highlighted the struggles faced by many Americans during the Great Depression and served as a powerful reminder of the need for government action to support those in need.