I.

Introduction

Conscription, system of compulsory enrollment of men and women into the armed forces. Conscripts are distinguished from volunteers and professionals, as well as from mercenaries, who offer their service to any government solely for pay. Conscripts may be called to serve in time of peace in order to train for war; they may be called into uniform in time of emergency. In the United States, conscription is popularly called “the draft” and, by legislative enactment, Selective Service.