American Legion Boys Nation
"A week that shapes a lifetime"
Founded in 1935, American Legion Boys State and Boys Nation are a highly respected, hands-on programs where high school juniors learn about local, state, and federal government by running mock governments and participating in civic activities.
Two participants from each Boys State are chosen to attend Boys Nation in Washington, D.C., where they take part in a weeklong deep dive into federal government by acting as U.S. senators. Boys Nation includes mock legislative sessions, political party conventions, and visits to national landmarks, and many alumni have gone on to hold public office or work in politics.
Prominent Alumni
"A week that shapes a lifetime" are the simple, yet powerful, words that illustrate the significant value of The American Legion Boys State and Boys Nation programs. For the past 78 years, these six words have positively affected the lives of more than a million high school boys, including famous alumni Tom Brokaw, Bill Clinton, Neil Armstrong, Michael Jordan and many more.
How to Participate
Boys State and Boys Nation are designed for students who show leadership, character, academic excellence, and a commitment to their school and community. High school students who haven’t attended the program before are eligible to apply for Boys State, and must participate in Boys State to be eligible for Boys Nation. Selection is based on merit and may vary slightly from state to state.
All programs follow federal disability guidelines, and most require a consent form signed by a parent or guardian and a licensed physician.
In most cases, schools recommend students to their local American Legion post, which then interviews and selects the delegates who will attend.
Contact Your State to Learn More
2025 Boys Nation Resources
The 79th Session of American Legion Boys Nation takes place July 18-26, 2025. The links below will contain information as it becomes available during and after the session takes place.
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Agenda & Legislation
Review the Boys Nation agenda and legislation submitted by Boys Nation Senators.Learn More -
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Boys Nation Yearbooks
Browse digital versions of Boys Nation Yearbooks from previous sessions and learn more about the events, party platforms and issues, and voting results for each year.