RG 35

Arizona Council of Defense

1917-1919

AA-83-8

            The Council of National Defense was established by Congress in 1917 for the coordination of industries and resources for the Nation's security and welfare during the period of World War I.  The Council was made up of sic Secretaries of War, Navy, Interior, Agriculture, Commerce and Labor.
            The State Councils of Defense were, in turn, organized to assist the National Council and cooperate with the Federal government in bringing about the greatest effectiveness within each state in furthering the work of national defense and public welfare after the United States entered the war.  The Councils served as the coordinating and directing agencies for all state war organizations and activities, ready to respond to governor and state in any emergency, both as a data-gathering agency and as a channel for patriotic publicity and propaganda through which the National Council could readily and effectively shape public opinion in supporting America's decision to aid her allies then in defense against Germany.
            The State Councils, composed of civilian members appointed by the governors, served without pay and consisted of a Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, an Executive Committee and four sub-committees consisting of Public Defense, Welfare, Production and Liberty Bonds and Stamps.  The primary and enormous task of the State Councils was to mobilize every person in the state in contributing his or her part to the war effort.  These records of the Arizona Defense Council document in a vivid way the task of the Council and the responses of the people of Arizona and other states in supporting President Wilson's difficult decision to enter the war, "...not to conquer, but for peace, justice and humanity."
            In all respects, the country was not prepared, but on April 2, 1917, President Wilson asked Congress to declare war on Germany.  Through the intense work and dedication of the countless men and women who served on the various councils and sub-committees--young people, urban and rural people, alien and citizen--the United States, in a unique effort was able to alter the course of the war, bringing about an armistice and deliverance to a beleaguered Europe on November 11, 1918.
            In order to facilitate research and convey the variety of subjects found in this records group, the folder titles are listed below.  Items of unusual interest or significance also may be noted.

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