Children should not be involved directly or indirectly in war. Child soldiers have participated in wars throughout history. Every continent in the world (except Antarctica) has used child soldiers in their military at least once during their history. A 14-year-old child in a war zone armed with automatic rifles, powerful explosives, and drugs laced with gunpowder and other dangerous substances seems too grotesque and immoral for this to actually happen; however, it is something that has happened many times throughout history and continues to do so. Even today, many countries or groups are involved in the use of child soldiers. Governments and organizations around the world have repeatedly attempted to launch movements to end this use. The United Nations (UN) has even passed international laws to try to deter nations or groups from recruiting children. Many programs specialize in not only helping children, but also helping them reintegrate into normal society. First, child soldiers appear repeatedly throughout the story. Children even fought in famous wars such as the United States Civil War and World War I. Experts estimate that up to 20 percent of soldiers during the United States Civil War were under 18 years old. order to enlist. While most children became drummers, nurses or scouts. When war casualties began to mount during a battle, some children were expected to play a much larger role. During the American Civil War, children were sometimes awarded medals for their service, courage, and loyalty. One of these children is John Cook. John Cook was a Union bugle player who was only 15 years old when he served. During the Bat...... middle of paper......adult soldiers. Additionally, enemy soldiers who do not have children are more hesitant to shoot children than their adult comrades. In conclusion, a child soldier is anyone involved in war under the age of 18. Child soldiers were common and appeared to occur in recent history. Today, child soldiers are considered immoral and inhumane; however, many countries and military groups still use children as soldiers. In recent years, many organizations, both government and civilian funded, have attempted to raise awareness and prevent this from happening in the future. International laws adopted by the UN prohibit the recruitment of children for military purposes. Reintegrating a former child soldier into society is difficult for both the children and society. Children are used by groups for several different reasons.