In Sacrifice for Liberty and Peace - Centennial Commemoration of the U.S. Entry into World War I
Date: April 6, 2017 Time: Kansas City
On April 6, 1917, after much debate, the United States entered World War I. One hundred years later, the nation gathers to commemorate that momentous debate with a moving ceremony illustrating America’s step-by-step decision to enter the war.
The ceremony features adapted historic images and music of the period as well as writings of volunteers, soldiers, public officials, historians and others that reflect how Americans and the world felt about the United States entry into the War that Changed the World. The original premier production blends music, narrative and storytelling to bring to life the national debate in 1917 as the horror of war continued on the battlefields of Europe. It recalls historic provocations such as the sinking of the Lusitania, and the impassioned arguments from our increasingly diverse citizens both for and against the war as the momentous decision triggered the beginning of what is now known as “The American Century.”
