"Through examinations of the U.S. military's racial and gender integration efforts, and its handling of sexuality, this book argues that the need for personnel filling the ranks has forced the armed services to be pragmatically progressive since World War II. Includes an introduction that offers historical context for understanding the U.S. military's relationship to social change, provides an in-depth examination of race, gender, and sexuality within the U.S. military since World War II and a conclusion that explores the future of military progressivism."-- Provided by publisher.

The military and American society -- World War II and the racial integration of the military -- The Cold War and a racially integrated military -- Military roles for women from World War II through the early Cold War -- The sixties and Vietnam women's military service -- Women and all-volunteer force -- Gays, lesbians, and the repeal of "Don't ask, don't tell" -- Conclusion.