Race, War, and Surveillance: African Americans and the United States Government during World War I

In April 1917, black Americans reacted in various ways to the entry of
the United States into World War I in the name of "Democracy." Some
expressed loud support, many were indifferent, and others voiced outright
opposition. All were agreed, however, that the best place to start guaranteeing
freedom was at home.

Almost immediately, rumors spread across the
nation that German agents were engaged in "Negro Subversion" and that
African Americans were potentially disloyal. Despite mounting a con...