January 21 in American History

January 21, 1977 — Carter pardons Vietnam draft evaders

On his first full day in office, President Carter granted a full pardon to hundreds of thousands of men who had evaded the Vietnam draft, hoping to help a divided country heal from its most wrenching war. It was controversial — many veterans felt it dishonored their service — but it was aimed squarely at reconciliation.

Common Questions About January 21

What happened on January 21 in American history?

In 1977: Carter pardons Vietnam draft evaders. On his first full day in office, President Carter granted a full pardon to hundreds of thousands of men who had evaded the Vietnam draft, hoping to help a divided country heal from its most wrenching war.

Why is January 21 significant?

On his first full day in office, President Carter granted a full pardon to hundreds of thousands of men who had evaded the Vietnam draft, hoping to help a divided country heal from its most wrenching war. It was controversial — many veterans felt it dishonored their service — but it was aimed squarely at reconciliation.

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