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 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 iin Springfield.
The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors a similiary program for young ladies called "Girls State." At American Legion Boys State, participants are exposed to the right and priviledges , the duties and 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 included legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentation, assembiles 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 State 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.
To learn more about Wisconsin's Badger Boys State program, who to enroll, and notable alumni, please click here.