1917: The Selective Service Act is passed, forcing men between twenty and thirty to enlist for military service. The first drafted American troops arrive in France in October to begin America's involvement in World War I.

Today: The Center on Conscience and War continues its struggle to end funding for draft registration. The organization made progress when the House of Representatives agreed and voted to end government financial support of selective service. However, the Senate voted to restore funding and, today, males between the ages of eighteen and twenty-five are required to register for the draft.

1921: President Warren G. Harding pardons Socialist Labor Party candidate Eugene V. Debs, allowing for his release from prison. Debs had been sentenced to ten years behind bars for his controversial anti-war speeches delivered during World War I.

Today: Before leaving office, President Bill Clinton announces controversial pardons of several...