African American Troops in the Civil War

At the onset of the Civil War in 1861, African Americans were largely prohibited from enlisting in the Union Army.

However, as the war progressed and the need for manpower grew, attitudes began to shift. The issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation at Gettysburg on January 1, 1863, not only declared the freedom of slaves in Confederate states but also authorized the enlistment of Black soldiers into the Union forces. This led to the formation of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) in May 1863, a bureau established to manage the recruitment and organization of African American regiments. This was similar to the post war Army reorganization act giving rise to the Buffalo soldiers!

Learn all about the timeline of the Civil War here!

Contributions and Sacrifices

By the end of the war, approximately 186,000 African American men had served in the Union Army, accounting for nearly 10% of its total forces. An additional 29,000 served in the Union Navy. These soldiers participated in over 40 major battles and numerous smaller skirmishes.

The mortality rate among African American soldiers was notably high. Approximately 20% of all African Americans enrolled in the military lost their lives during the Civil War, a rate significantly higher than that of white soldiers.

Key African American Civil War Moments

The death toll did not stop African American troops from claiming major victories well after the battle of Fredericksburg and their admittance into the fight! The most celebrated unit during the Civil War was the 54th Massachusetts. They were involved in the Attack at Fort Wagner and the Battle of Olustee. The unit was recognized by Congress for their bravery, and William Carney, a member of the unit, became the first Black American to receive the Medal of Honor.

During the Assault on Fort Wagner on July 18, 1863, the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment led a costly attack on this Confederate fortification in South Carolina. This attack earned widespread acclaim and inspired many Black soldiers to enlist.

Another major moment for African American servicemen was the Battle of Chaffin's Farm. On September 29, 1864, USCT units were instrumental in this Virginia engagement when three African American soldiers ran ahead of the Union troops, breaching the Confederate lines and engaging in hand-to-hand combat. Their division followed soon after, forcing the Confederate troops to retreat. Fourteen African American soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor for their bravery in this battle.

Another example of outstanding performance came at the Battle of New Market Heights on September 29, 1864. Once Union forces pushed through Confederate defenses, accounts indicate that the USCT occupied Confederate forts and prevented the southerners from regaining control. Fourteen Black soldiers received the Medal of Honor for these acts. Several African American soldiers displayed exceptional bravery and several earned the Medal of Honor for that day!

Legacy

African American troops in the Civil War were fighting for more than just the preservation of the Union. They were fighting for their freedom and for equality. Although it would take more than 100 years before their dream of equality was realized through the Civil Rights Movement, the service of African American troops in the Civil War was a significant step toward justice and civil rights.

If you are interested in learning more about history or getting to know our American Made historical flag collection please browse our website and let us know if we can help you in any way! We have customer support available by phone and chat box Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 5:00!

General History - Important People - Resources

• Preserving the Legacy of the Colored Troops
• William H. Carney – First Black US Soldier to receive the Medal of Honor
• The 54th Massachusetts Infantry
• United States Colored Troops in the Civil War
• University of Northern Texas American Civil War Web Resources
• Civil War: African American Soldiers
• The African American Civil War Monument