Skip to main content

Story: Sexual health

First World War syphilis-prevention film

Video file

Whatsoever a man soweth, a Canadian film made in 1917, was shown to New Zealand troops. It warned against contact with prostitutes, and showed the results of syphilis for an infected man and his children. The International Hospitality League (mentioned in the last frame) was set up by the Young Men's Christian Association during the First World War to entertain soldiers on leave. Caring for those from the colonies and the United States was seen as an important part of the League's mission. Much of its work was done by women volunteers.

Using this item

British Film Institute

Reference: 385503

This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page

Jane Tolerton, Sexual health – Sexual health, 1914–1945, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/video/27204/first-world-war-syphilis-prevention-film (accessed 25 June 2026).

Story by Jane Tolerton, published 30 March 2011.