What is Boys Nation?
Two "Boys Staters" from each state have the great honor of being selected as delegates
to Boys Nation.
Boys Nation is held each year after Boys State has been completed. Two former
Palmetto Boys Staters have had the distinction of being elected as President of
Boys Nation. Thomas Martin of Spartanburg was elected President of Boys Nation
in 1973, and Sterling Dowling of Orangeburg in 1997.
Visit the Boys Nation website
Two outstanding representatives from each of 48 Boys States are called upon to represent
their state at American Legion Boys Nation in Washington, DC. It is here that
the young leaders who had excelled at their respective Boys States are introduced
to the structure and function of the federal government.
The first American Legion Boys Nation (then called Boys Forum of National Government)
was held in August 1946 at American University in Washington, D.C. It was
officially adopted as a major youth activity by the 1946 National Convention.
Three years later, its name was changed to American Legion Boys Nation.
At American Legion Boys Nation, each delegate represents his Boys State as a Senator.
These youthful lawmakers caucus at the beginning of the session, organize into committees,
and conduct hearings on bills submitted by delegates to the program.
The Boys Nation Senators are instructed on the proper method of handling bills according
to the rules of the United States Senate. Actual participation in the political
process is highlighted throughout the week to include the organization of party
conventions and the nomination and election of a Boys Nation President and Vice
President.
The week of government training in the Nation's Capitol combines lectures and forums
with visitations to federal agencies, institutions, memorials, and historical spots
in and around Washington. During a visit to Capitol Hill, Boys Nation Senators
meet with elected officials from their home states.
Boys Nation visits several historic and governmental sites in and around the Washington,
D.C. area. Included are field trips to Arlington National Cemetery, the monuments
and memorials on the National Mall, the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. Department
of State, the U.S. Capitol and the White House.
Since its beginning in 1946, Boys Nation has seen many of its graduates elected
to public offices which include the Presidency of the United States, the United
States Congress, as state governors, and as state legislators. Many others
became inspired to actively work for the campaigns of individuals seeking public
office.