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This map roughly shows the population of men in each state eligible for the future draft that began in 1917. The draft was for all men ages 21 to 31, and the voting age was 21 at this time. During the war there was concern about the number of men being rejected from the draft due to their lack of “fitness.” This problem was addressed with the creation of mandated physical education and military training programs in schools across the country.

The first map shows the number of children attending school in 1910. This roughly reflects the number of children who were being introduced to physical education and military training programs in each county during this time. The second map shows the number of children ages 7-20 attending school in 1920. The two maps depict a nationwide increase in school attendance between 1910 and 1920. This demonstrates the importance placed on education and signifies a significant increase in the number of children exposed to physical education programs.

The chart shows the distribution of defective men by state between 1917 and 1918. The data is from a study conducted at various mobilization camps during the World War I draft. The study involved approximately four fifths of all the men who received physical examinations for the draft and its conclusions can be extrapolated to represent the entire population of eligible men for the draft (Love, 1919, p.27). As with the percentages of defective men, the defects also varied by state. In states categorized in the desert group, like Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico, defects such as tuberculosis, underweight, and flat foot were common (Love, 1919, p.45). The lumber industry in the North caused high rates of loss of fingers and arms (Love, 1919, p.46). Furthermore, states placed in the eastern manufacturing group had high rates of myopia, heart diseases, bad teeth, and underweight (Love, 1919, p.46). Overall, cities reflected 15% more defects than rural areas. Urban areas exhibited defects due to poor environmental conditions and inferior stock. Rural areas, however, exhibited higher rates of hereditary defects partially due to the increased rates of incest that were more common in rural districts (Love, 1919, p.47). The data was also analyzed by race. African Americans were characterized by prominent defects including venereal disease, valvular heart disease, arthritis, poor emotional control, flat foot, and many bullet and other wounds. Additionally, Native Americans and Mexicans were noted with high rates of tuberculosis, venereal disease, ankylosis, and cleft palate (Love, 1919, p.46).

Analyzing the rates of defective men and their variation, describes the geographic landscape of the time. The defects provide insight into the conditions and treatment marginalized groups received and the impact of climate and career on physical health. The high percentages of defects across the country highlight the need for increased physical fitness and the implementation of physical education and military training programs in schools.