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Public Health Measures Against Venereal Disease of the Early Twentieth Century

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At the onset of the twentieth century, many changes in American life were occurring, including the expansion of cities, an increase in immigration, and a change in the typical family structure. A movement of social reforms known as progressivism arose to counter these changes, which were viewed as a challenge to domestic life. Specifically, venereal disease caught the attention of many progressives. As members of the medical profession learned more about the pathology of disease, venereal disease became regarded as the ultimate threat to the American family. The biggest outrage was the infection of innocents, women and children who encountered the disease as a result of unfaithful husbands and fathers. Efforts by the progressives to …show more content…

Entry into the war would transform the problem of sexually transmitted disease into a national issue of the first magnitude, requiring a centrally conceived program”(Brandt 133). The progressives also worried about lewd behaviors projecting a negative American image on an international level. It became clear to the progressives that wartime efforts would be needed to ensure military efficiency and health. On April 17, 1917, eleven days after the declaration of war, the Commission on Training Camp Activities, or CTCA, was formed with Fosdick at the helm.
The Commission utilized two main strategies to encourage sexual continence amongst troops, which was viewed as the best way to stop infection: distraction and coercion (Brandt 141). The distraction took place in centrally located huts, which became the hub of social life in the camps. Men were able to play cards, listen to music, or watch performances. In addition, athletic and recreational activities were organized. The commission believed that busy troops were less likely to engage in sexual activity. Also, strenuous athletic activity was thought to repress sexual impulses (Brand 144). In terms of coercion, the CTCA relied on education about the importance of hygiene, abstinence, and the perils of venereal disease. The General Medical Board of the Council on National Defense released an official statement rejecting the preconceived

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