Federal Recruiting Poster With the American flag flying proudly, this poster from the 36th Regiment, New York Volunteers, reaches out to potential recruits. It promises a nine-month enlistment (relatively short) and the “usual bounty” (an enlistment bonus). And it warns, “Don’t wait to be drafted!” Being drafted was shameful; volunteering was manly and patriotic.

Private Collection/Peter Newark Military Pictures/Bridgeman Images.