Subject
United States -- History -- Revolution, 1775-1783 -- Participation, African American Books
Best books
Joseph T. (Joseph Thomas) Wilson
The Black Phalanx African American soldiers in the War of Independence, the War of 1812, and the Civil War
"The Black Phalanx" by Joseph T. Wilson is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book chronicles the contributions and experiences of African American soldiers during pivotal conflicts in American history, including the War of Independence, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. Wilson, a veteran of the Union's 54th Massachusetts Regiment and an advocate for the valor of Black troops, aims to illuminate their often-overlooked roles and sacrifices in these significant battles. At the start of the work, Wilson reflects on the lack of recorded history regarding the participation of African American soldiers in early American wars, particularly the Revolutionary War. He introduces the story of Crispus Attucks, a runaway slave credited as the first casualty in the fight for independence, and shares examples of the bravery displayed by Black soldiers, such as Peter Salem at the Battle of Bunker Hill. The opening establishes a motivational tone, as Wilson expresses his commitment to preserving the narrative of these soldiers, highlighting their unrecognized valor and the social prejudices they had to confront while fighting for a nation that often marginalized them.
William C. (William Cooper) Nell
Colored Americans in the Wars of 1776 and 1812
"Colored Americans in the Wars of 1776 and 1812" by William C. Nell is a historical account published in the early 20th century. It delves into the contributions and achievements of African Americans during the American Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. The book aims to shed light on the often overlooked roles that Black soldiers played in these pivotal conflicts, countering the prevailing narratives that have historically marginalized their contributions. In this book, Nell compiles various accounts from records, diaries, and newspaper articles that document the brave efforts of African Americans who fought for their own freedom and the nation’s independence. Many notable figures are mentioned, including Crispus Attucks, recognized as the first martyr of the Boston Massacre, and accounts of Black soldiers who served valiantly, often overcoming significant prejudice. The text not only highlights individual stories of courage and sacrifice but also seeks to challenge the systemic racial biases that have long obscured these contributions from mainstream historical narratives. Ultimately, the book serves as a powerful tribute to the essential role of Colored Americans in the establishment and defense of the United States.
T. G. (Theophilus Gould) Steward
How the Black St. Domingo Legion Saved the Patriot Army in the Siege of Savannah, 1779 The American Negro Academy. Occasional Papers No. 5
"How the Black St. Domingo Legion Saved the Patriot Army in the Siege of Savannah, 1779" by T. G. Steward is a historical account published in the late 19th century. The book focuses on the crucial role played by the Black St. Domingo Legion during the siege of Savannah, a significant yet often overlooked event in the American Revolutionary War. Steward aims to highlight the contributions of free Black soldiers from the French colony of Saint Domingo, who fought valiantly alongside American forces against the British. In this detailed narrative, Steward recounts the events leading up to and during the siege of Savannah, discussing the strategies employed by both the besieging forces and the British defenders. He emphasizes the vital role of the Black St. Domingo Legion, which not only participated in the initial assault but also heroically covered the retreat of the American forces following a disastrous outcome. Through accounts of notable figures within the legion and reflections on the broader implications of their contributions, the book connects the struggle for American independence to the subsequent fight for freedom in Haiti and South America. By shedding light on these historical connections, Steward asserts that the actions of these soldiers were instrumental in shaping the course of liberty in the Western world.
Recently surfaced classics