pdf The war of 1812 and the rise of the us navy

It is an undisputed fact, however, that there were Black combatants in these national conflicts. Many of the smaller wars in the 19th century have limited records of service members wars such as the War of 1812 and the Seminole Wars. At the Battle of Newport in 1778, the regiment fought so fiercely one of the Hessian officers resigned his commission rather than leading his men against the 1st Rhode Island.

The regiment earned a reputation for bravery and ferocity. One particular unit, the 1st Rhode Island Regiment, drove George Washington to agree to allow Black Soldiers who were slaves, to earn freedom through service. These men served in the artillery (the most advanced branch of service during the period), the infantry, as laborers, and even musicians. Army History Office estimates around 5,000 warriors in the American Revolution were Black. It will also explore how the military valor of African Americans helped end limited martial involvement and segregated military service.īlack service members have fought in every single American conflict.

This discussion will investigate the numerous examples of Black military service, with Black Americans fighting in every United States conflict from the American War for Independence to present day. With the recent events in 2020, it is important to look back over the events that have been pivotal in breaking down racial barriers.

Pdf The war of 1812 and the rise of the us navy