The Black Phalanx / African American soldiers in the War of Independence, the War of 1812, and the Civil War

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

31339

Title

The Black Phalanx / African American soldiers in the War of Independence, the War of 1812, and the Civil War

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A powerful historical record by Joseph T. Wilson, a veteran of the 54th Massachusetts and Louisiana Native Guard, detailing the heroic service of African American soldiers from the Revolutionary War through the Civil War. This unabridged edition challenges racial prejudices by highlighting the bravery, discipline, and sacrifice of the 'Black Phalanx' in securing American liberty.

Summary up to 500 words

Joseph T. Wilson, a veteran of the 2nd Louisiana Native Guard and the 54th Massachusetts, compiles a definitive history of African American military service across three pivotal conflicts: the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. The work serves as both a tribute to the 'New Race' and a corrective to historical narratives that often credited generals rather than the soldiers themselves. Wilson emphasizes that victory belonged to the men who fought despite exhaustion, hunger, and deep-seated caste prejudice. The narrative begins with the Revolutionary War, recounting the exploits of figures like Crispus Attucks and Peter Salem. Despite early prohibitions and the fear of slave insurrections, these men fought for liberty, with Peter Salem notably killing British Major Pitcairn at Bunker Hill. Wilson details the gradual shift in colonial sentiment, noting that while some states initially banned black enlistment, the dire need for troops eventually led to their inclusion, though discharged soldiers were often re-enslaved. Moving to the War of 1812, Wilson addresses the seizure of American Negro sailors by the British and the participation of black troops on American privateers. The narrative culminates in the Civil War, where Wilson documents the formation of the 'Black Phalanx.' He vividly describes the recruitment struggles, the harsh conditions of service, and the intense battles faced by these regiments. Specific engagements, such as the storming of Fort Wagner and the defense at Brice's Cross Roads, are detailed with accounts of individual valor and the devastating losses suffered by black units often left unsupported. Wilson corrects the popular histories which ascribed victory to commanders instead of the soldiers. He highlights that the troops who persisted against odds were the true conquerors. The text includes harrowing accounts of the retreat from Brice's Cross Roads, where black regiments held the line while white troops fled, and the desperate charge at Spanish Fort, where men crossed deep water under heavy fire to seize rebel batteries. The book serves as a plea for recognition of their indispensable role in preserving the Union and achieving freedom, asserting that no massacre stains the banners of those who followed, and that their training developed patriotism and courage, not revenge.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Biography
• History