Legionnaires Harold Card and Hayes Kennedy organize the first American Legion Boys State June 23, 1935, at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. Meant to counter the Soviet Union's communist Young Pioneer camps, Boys State quickly catches on as a nationwide program to teach young Americans their rights, privileges and responsibilities as franchised citizens, as they set up their own cities, counties and state governments and elect representatives. Each participant is instructed in the composition of government and the duties of public office.
American Legion Boys State
