History of U.S. Military Uniforms
Since the 18th century, U.S. military uniforms have been implemented as a way to encourage unit cohesion. Today, the uniform is a reflection of a member's branch of service and rank. Each service has a variety of uniforms, to be worn for specific assignments or events.
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The Revolutionary War
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In 1779, General George Washington selected a blue uniform for his men, in stark contrast to the red uniforms of the British Army. The uniforms were characterized by white pantaloons, exposed waistcoats and button-back lapels and cuffs.
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1817
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By 1817, gray pantaloons replaced the less-practical white pantaloons. By 1832, light blue pantaloons had replaced the gray. By this time, under Napoleonic influence, coats were fastened and the waistcoat no longer exposed. Metal insignia appeared around 1832.
The Civil War
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In 1851, for economic reasons, the short coats of Napoleon's time were lengthened into tunics or frock coats, accompanied by black leather belts. During the Civil War, the Confederate army elected to wear gray pantaloons. The Union army adopted a French cap.
1872
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In 1872, the U.S. military adopted a service dress, in addition to the everyday uniform.
1902
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In 1902, with the adoption of the smokeless rifle, the Army adopted the khaki or olive drab to better conceal troops who were no longer concealed by traditional weaponry. Blue was reserved for the dress uniform. Sleeve insignias were added during World War I.
Modern Times
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Today, Army, Air Force and Marine members wear camouflage battle dress uniforms (BDUs) and black boots. Sailor's service dress consists of blue or white jumpers. Naval officer's daily dress consists of a khaki blouse, trousers and black dress shoes or pumps.
References
- Photo Credit "Free Black Combat Boots Creative Commons" is Copyrighted by Flickr user: Pink Sherbet Photography (D. Sharon Pruitt) under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
