In the light of history the ready submission of the United States to
compulsory draft when peace with Germany could no longer be maintained
is remarkable. If the Republic had been among the original combatants
it is inconceivable that the draft at the outset would have been
sanctioned. There is nothing in the history of the Revolutionary War,
the war of 1812 or the Civil War to suggest that the United States
would raise armies by compulsion while the forces required could be
secured by the voluntary system. Nearly three years elapsed before
the statesmen at Washington resolved to engage in the great struggle
between freedom and despotism. It is not necessarily a reproach to the
American people that there was long delay before friendly relations
with Germany were severed. A divided nation cannot strike with all its
strength. Until the people were substantially united compulsion was
impracticable and dangerous. Through the patience and wise dealing of
the President and the arrogance, insolence and devious manœuvring of
Germany a common national feeling was finally developed upon which
Mr. Wilson could rely for support in all measures necessary to secure
appropriations, raise armies and ensure sympathetic and effective
co-operation between the Government and the people. Supported by the
national feeling the President was able to establish national service
and save his country from the waste, strain, clamor and inequity of
raising armies by voluntary appeal.