The Forgotten African American Soldiers of World War I: Their Fight for Equality

Published: 16 January 2025

By Sam Jacobs
Special to the Doughboy Foundation website

26431456-g

World War I, often referred to as “The War to End All Wars,” profoundly shaped the American nation, not just in terms of global positioning but also in domestic social dynamics. Among the millions who served were nearly 400,000 African Americans, a fact often overlooked in traditional histories of the conflict. These soldiers’ experiences on and off the battlefield planted seeds for the Civil Rights Movement and exposed the contradictions of a nation fighting for freedom abroad while denying it to many at home.

Service Amid Segregation

African American soldiers entered World War I with hopes that their service would be a step toward racial equality. However, the reality was starkly different. The U.S. Army was strictly segregated, relegating Black troops to labor-intensive roles like unloading ships, digging trenches, and constructing roads. Combat opportunities were rare, and most African American units were commanded by white officers.

Yet, the 369th Infantry Regiment, famously known as the “Harlem Hellfighters,” defied these norms. This all-Black unit fought under French command due to the U.S. military’s reluctance to integrate Black soldiers into its ranks. The Harlem Hellfighters distinguished themselves in battle, spending 191 days in combat—longer than any other American unit—and earning the Croix de Guerre, France’s highest military honor. Their bravery and resilience challenged prevailing stereotypes and demonstrated the capabilities of African American soldiers.

The Double V Campaign

The war’s conclusion brought neither the recognition nor the societal change that African American soldiers had hoped for. Upon returning home, many were met with violence, discrimination, and hostility. The summer of 1919, known as the “Red Summer,” saw a wave of race riots across the country, as white communities reacted violently to the perceived threat posed by returning Black veterans demanding equality.

In response, African Americans launched what would later be known as the “Double V Campaign.” This movement symbolized a dual victory: victory abroad against America’s enemies and victory at home against racism. Veterans like W.E.B. Du Bois urged their fellow soldiers to continue the fight for civil rights, leveraging their military service as evidence of their entitlement to full citizenship.

Cultural Shifts and Legacy

World War I also acted as a cultural catalyst for the African American community. The war experience contributed to the Harlem Renaissance, as returning soldiers infused their communities with a sense of pride and determination. Jazz, literature, and art flourished, becoming powerful tools for expressing the struggles and aspirations of African Americans.

The service of African American soldiers also inspired future generations. The contradictions of fighting for democracy abroad while facing oppression at home were not lost on the Civil Rights leaders of the mid-20th century. Martin Luther King Jr., for instance, often referenced the sacrifices of Black soldiers in World War I to highlight the ongoing fight for equality.

The Forgotten Heroes

The African American soldiers of World War I were pioneers, challenging the systemic racism of their time and laying the groundwork for future civil rights advancements. Their contributions are a reminder that history is not just about wars won and lost but about the people whose sacrifices reshaped society.

As we honor their service, we must also confront the uncomfortable truths about the racial injustices they faced, ensuring that their stories are neither forgotten nor overshadowed by broader narratives of the Great War.


Sam Jacobs writes for ammo.com

External Web Site Notice: This page contains information directly presented from an external source. The terms and conditions of this page may not be the same as those of this website. Click here to read the full disclaimer notice for external web sites. Thank you.

Share this article

Related posts