Recruitment Challenges
What was one essential health requirement for potential soldiers?
Good eyesight.
What was one common belief about First Peoples' skills?
They were believed to have special skills as snipers and scouts.
What was one reason some Indigenous communities did not support the war?
They were reminded of past treaty promises that assured they would not have to fight.
How did enlistment affect reserves in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia?
Roughly half of the eligible 'Mi'kmaq and Maliseet men signed up.
How did the military environment shift for Indigenous soldiers?
It became more progressive compared to contemporary civilian society.
What age range was required for potential soldiers?
Between 18 and 45 years old.
What impact did racial feelings have on the war effort?
The war effort was largely carried out by white Canadians, with many visible minorities being rejected.
What challenges did Indigenous people face in terms of enlistment records?
Records rarely included Inuit, Métis, and others, leading to an undercount.
How did the Head of the Lake Band respond to the war effort?
Every eligible man between the ages of 20 and 35 volunteered.
What effect did the war have on Indigenous communities long-term?
Significant depletion of young men and long-term impacts on communities.
What humorous remark did gap-toothed soldiers make upon rejection?
They remarked that they wanted to shoot Germans, not bite them
What was the response of Indigenous leaders regarding compulsory enlistment?
Many argued against compulsory enlistment unless their status as independent nations was acknowledged.
Why was the total number of Indigenous volunteers difficult to determine?
Many records did not account for all Indigenous groups, and enlistments in territories were not recorded.
Who were some notable Indigenous soldiers recognized for their service?
Corporal Francis Pegahmagabow and Henry Norwest, among others.
What contrast is highlighted between military acceptance and civilian discrimination?
Indigenous peoples' significant military contributions were acknowledged in the military but not in civilian life.
What were the strict medical requirements for a potential soldier?
Must be at least 5 feet 3 inches tall, between 18 and 45 years old, with good eyesight, arched feet, and healthy teeth.
How did Indigenous peoples contribute to the war effort?
Many were embraced for their skills as snipers and scouts.
How many Indigenous people are known to have enlisted in WWI?
Approximately 4,000, though the actual number is likely higher.
Which communities had significant enlistment rates during the war?
New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and the Head of the Lake Band in British Columbia.
How did military units treat Indigenous soldiers compared to civilian society?
Military units generally became more welcoming to Indigenous soldiers.
What was one reason many eager volunteers were rejected from military service?
Strict medical requirements, such as height, age, and health conditions.
Why were most visible minorities rejected for military service?
Racist feelings ran deep, leading to the rejection of most Black and Asian Canadian volunteers.
What proportion of able-bodied First Nations men enlisted during WWI?
One in three.
How did Indigenous communities demonstrate enthusiasm for the war effort?
Many reserves were nearly depleted of young men volunteering for service.
What legacy did Indigenous soldiers leave after WWI?
Demonstrated their military capabilities and created a lasting legacy of service.