Over There, Over Here: 100th Anniversary of the U.S. Entering World War I

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A multi-group collaboration among thirteen historical societies, museums, and libraries is underway with a project called “Over There, Over Here: WWI and Life in New Hampshire Communities,” commemorating the 100th anniversary of the United States’ entry into World War I. Exhibits, programs, lectures, and book readings will take place in eight towns through November. The following program takes place in July:

Chemical Warfare and World War I

Thursday, July 13, 6:30 pm, ​Hopkinton Historical Society
300 Main St., Hopkinton

Chemical weapons are taboo weapons today, but that has not always been the case. Poison gas was outlawed in 1899 and 1907 in the Hague Conventions before it was ever used in war, yet the Germans introduced it to the battlefield at Ypres in 1915. The British, who were one of the first victims, reacted with shock. Later they became one of the leading practioners of chemical warfare.  Each segment of British society - from politicans and the military to physicians and the general public - reacted differently to the adoption of chemical warfare depending on its experience, ranging from fear to endorsement. It becomes clear from the wartime and interwar experiences that it was not inevitable that gas would be banned again - or that it will stay that way. This program will be presented by Dr. Marion Girard-Dorsey of UNH. For a complete list of upcoming programs and exhibits, visit www.OverThereOverHere.com.