Two outstanding representatives from each of 49 Boys States are called upon to represent their state at American Legion Boys Nation in Washington, DC. It is here that the young leaders, who had excelled at their respective Boys States, are introduced to the structure and function of the federal government.

The first American Legion Boys Nation (then called Boys Forum of National Government) was held in August 1946 at American University in Washington, DC. It was officially adopted as a major youth activity by the 1946 National Convention. Three years later, its name was changed to American Legion Boys Nation.

At American Legion Boys Nation, each delegate represents his Boys State as a senator. These youthful lawmakers caucus at the beginning of the session, organize into committees and conduct hearings on bills submitted by delegates to the program.

The Boys Nation Senators are instructed on the proper method of handling bills according to the rules of the United States Senate. Actual participation in the political process is highlighted throughout the week to include the organization of party conventions and the nomination and election of a Boys Nation President and Vice President.

The week of government training in the Nation's Capitol combines lectures and forums with visitations to federal agencies, institutions, memorials and historical spots in and around Washington. During a visit to Capitol Hill, Boys Nation Senators meet with elected officials from their home states.

Boys Nation visits several historic and governmental sites in and around the Washington, DC area. Included are field trips to Arlington National Cemetery, the monuments and memorials on the National Mall, the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Capitol and the White House.

Since its beginning in 1946, Boys Nation has seen many of its graduates elected to public offices which include the Presidency of the United States, the United States Congress, as state governors and as state legislators. Many others became inspired to actively work for the campaigns of individuals seeking public office.

For more information, contact
The American Legion
PO Box 1055, Indianapolis, Indiana 46206
Contact Children and Youth.

Boys State

2008 Boys State Sites and Dates

American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for high school students. It is a participatory program where each participant becomes a part of the operation of his local, county and state government.

Boys State has been a program of The American Legion since 1935 when it organized to counter the Fascist inspired Young Pioneer Camps. The program was the idea of two Illinois Legionnaires, Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card, who organized the first Boys State at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.

The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors a similar program for young ladies called Girls State.

At American Legion Boys State, participants are exposed to the rights and privileges, the duties and the responsibilities of a franchised citizen. The training is objective and practical with city, county and state governments operated by the students elected to the various offices. Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, chorus and recreational programs.

High school juniors are selected by local American Legion posts to attend the program. In most cases, expenses associated with attending this program are paid by a sponsoring American Legion post, a local business or another community-based organization.

American Legion Boys State is currently conducted in 49 Departments of The American Legion. Hawaii does not conduct a program. As separate corporations, Boys States vary in content and method of procedure, but each and every Boys State adheres to the basic concept of the program - that of teaching government from the township to the state level.

Boys State Selection

The American Legion has established certain qualifications for prospective Boys State citizens. Following are the recommended guidelines that are employed by most American Legion Boys State programs.

- Only males who have successfully completed their junior year of high school and have at least one more semester of high school remaining are considered eligible to participate.

- Any boy who has previously attended an American Legion Boys State is not eligible to attend a second session.

- Only boys with outstanding qualities of leadership, character, scholarship, loyalty and service to their schools and community should be considered.

In the actual selection of boys as citizens of Boys State, merit and ability alone are the basis for selection.

American Legion Boys States are in compliance with federal handicap laws. Most programs require a medical/parental consent certificate signed by a parent and a registered doctor.

The selection process often differs in the various departments of The American Legion.

The recommended method is for the school to recommend a list of eligible candidates to the local American Legion post. The post would then conduct interviews and selects their representative(s) to the program.

For additional information, visit one of the Boys State web sites below or contact: The American Legion, Attn: Boys State, PO Box 1055, Indianapolis, Indiana 46206; Contact Children and Youth.

If you would like information on Boys State or Girls State please click here or go to

http://www.boysandgirlsstate.org/

Boys State Websites