""They were Good Soldiers". African-American Serving..." Topic

….IN THE CONTINENTAL ARMY, 1775-1783

"The role of African-Americans, most free but some enslaved, in the regiments of the Continental Army is not well-known, neither is the fact that relatively large numbers served in southern regiments and that the greatest number served alongside their white comrades in integrated units. The book begins by discussing for comparison inclusion and treatment of black Americans by the various Crown forces (particularly British and Loyalist commanders and military units). The next section discusses broadly black soldiers in the Continental Army, before delving into each state. Each state's section first looks at the Continental regiments in that state's contingent throughout the war, and then adds interesting black soldiers pension narratives or portions thereof. The premise is to leave the reader with some insights into the common soldiers' wartime experiences. The book ends with a look into what African-American veterans experienced post-war in their communities and home states. There have been no other book-length works that deal with the wartime experiences of black Continental soldiers in detail; additionally, the use of pension narratives of black soldiers to gain personal data and ‘hear' them tell their own stories is relatively new, and compelling."

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Amicalement
Armand

The role of African-Americans, most free but some enslaved, in the regiments of the Continental Army is not well-known

Since 1976 an effort has been made to make the American Revolution more inclusive. This includes making a greater effort to inform people about African-Americans serving in the rebel armies and serving as rebel spies. What has been less well publicized are actions taken by African-Americans that ran counter to the goal of attaining independence for the U.S. During the AWI numbers of African-Americans took a look at the situation around them and rationally determined it was in their own individual interests to take actions against the rebels. This could include service in Loyalist and Hessian units or as British auxiliaries or as spies. It could be something more mundane such as stealing their master's horse or silver or food stores and escaping to British lines. It would appear from the review that this author has made some effort to present the fuller picture. (Usual warning about judging a book by its review.)

Thanks!.

Amicalement
Armand

Looks like an interesting read. I want to pick it up.

I know racial views changed between the Revolution and the ACW. They certainly hardened in the south. But we have plenty of proof that slaves fought in the AWI on both sides, but people deny they fought at all for the south in the ACW. I know the numbers were very, very small. However, I've read enough accounts to believe that a handful did.

Glad you like it my friend!. (smile)

Amicalement
Armand