The Depression Papers of Herbert Hoover

The Bonus March

In the prosperous year of 1925, Congress set up the veteran bonus program. World war veterans were given bonds redeemable in 1945, to be paid from a fund that Congress would contribute to annually. When the depression hit, veterans sought legislation that would allow them to spend their bonuses early. These bills were very upsetting to Hoover, who was struggling to balance the budget. The movement culminated in the summer of 1932 with a march in Washington to demand full and immediate payment of the bonus.

• Letter, February 18, 1931
  Hoover outlines his objections to a bill increasing the loan value of veteran bonus certificates.
• Message to the House, February 26, 1931
  Hoover vetoes the bonus bill.
• Press conference statement, February 27, 1931
  Hoover outlines his plan to implement the bonus legislation.
• Press statement and letters, July 28, 1932
  Hoover discusses the events leading to the deployment of army troops in Washington.
• Press conference statement, July 29, 1932
  Hoover comments on his response to the riots.
• Press statement, September 14, 1932
  Hoover explains his opposition to the bonus bill.

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