African Americans and the War: The North
White troops objected at first—race prejudice
Served in segregated units
Faced lower pay, menial jobs
54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry
Led by Colonel Robert Gould Shaw (white officer)
William Carney –1st African American to win Medal of Honor
38,000 African Americans died in Union service; 22 Medal of Honor Winners
The 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry:
The 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry was an all-African American infantry regiment that served during the American Civil War. It was one of the first officially recognized units of African Americans in the United States Military and was organized in early 1863. The unit gained recognition and fame through their courageous actions and sacrifices on the battlefield, particularly during the assault on Fort Wagner in South Carolina.
While many in the North were apprehensive about allowing African Americans to serve in the military, President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation in 1862 opened the doors for enlisting African Americans in the Union army. The 54th Massachusetts was created in response to this new opportunity, and it quickly attracted recruits from both newly freed and previously free black men.
Throughout their service, the soldiers of the 54th Massachusetts faced discrimination, including receiving lower pay and being assigned menial jobs. These injustices did not stop the unit from proving themselves to be courageous and effective soldiers. The regiment's performance helped dispel the idea that African Americans could not serve effectively in combat roles and paved the way for greater African American participation in the Union military.
Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, a white officer from a prominent abolitionist family, was given the command of the regiment. Under his leadership, the 54th Massachusetts participated in multiple battles, most notably the aforementioned attack on Fort Wagner in July 1863. Despite heavy casualties and ultimately losing the battle, the bravery and tenacity of the 54th Massachusetts inspired other African American units and further validated their role within the Union army.
One of the most notable members of the 54th Massachusetts was Sergeant William Carney, who became the first African American to be awarded the Medal of Honor. During the assault on Fort Wagner, Carney, despite being wounded several times, managed to carry the Union flag throughout the battle and returned it safely to his unit.
By the end of the Civil War, approximately 38,000 African Americans had died in Union service, and 22 had won the Medal of Honor. The 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry played a significant role in changing public opinion on the capabilities of African American soldiers and demonstrated the value of their service to the country. Their legacy continues to be remembered and honored today, as the regiment and its heroes are commemorated through books, films, and monuments.