Through the catalyst of the United States entering the Great War in 1917, Florida experienced many changes. The state mobilized large numbers of able-bodied men through a series of drafts, culminating in roughly fifty thousand men. Military bases were constructed and put into active service in Florida, such as Camp Joseph E. Johnston. The camp was constructed in Jacksonville and was utilized throughout the war to train soldiers from across twenty different states. Early naval aviation also thrived in Florida during the First World war, with hubs in Pensacola and Miami. The war also brought some of the greatest minds of America to the state, such as Thomas Edison, who sought to help the war effort.
These are just some of the topics of discussion that this website provides information on that took place during the Great War in the Sunshine State. The Florida in World War I website is constantly working to expand encyclopedia entries on Florida topics during the Great War. Be sure to check back for more fascinating stories.
• African American World War I Soldiers in Orlando: Where did they live? by Tyler Campbell
• Camp Joseph E. Johnston by Tyler Kelly
• Naval Aviation in Florida by Kathryn Rinehart
• Thomas Edison in the Great War by Andrew Ortiz