On April 6, 1917, the U.S. declared war on Germany, entering the First World War in order that the world would “be made safe for democracy.” The fight for woman's suffrage continued with protests and arrests at the White House as well as increased public sympathy. The Russian Revolutions overthrew Tsarist autocracy and ultimately led to the formation of the Soviet Union. Construction of the Smithsonian's Freer Gallery of Art began.
Explore items in the Smithsonian's collections related to the year 1917. The Smithsonian's collections represent our nation's shared history, art from across the globe, and the immense diversity of the natural and cultural world.