1940-1949

May 23, 1940

Over 800 people attend the All-University Peace Convocation. Students use the slogan “Cannon fodder age students are determined to stay out of war.”

October 1940

The United League for Liberal Action protests against compulsory registration for selective service.

1944

The University Club refuses to accommodate Arthur E. Burke, an African-American graduate student planning to complete his doctoral studies in English. After faculty and student protests, Burke is allowed to rent a room. Students had been involved actively in discriminatory housing issues since at least 1940.

Listen to Oral History Clip:

December 3, 1945

Approximately 40 students hold a rally against peacetime conscription on the Capitol steps.