Many African Americans have fought and died in various wars under the United States’ military. Following the Second Confiscation and Militia Act, which freed slaves whose masters were in the Confederate Army, African Americans were permitted to enlist in late 1862. However, it was not until January 1, 1863 did they serve as soldiers in the Union Army. Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation which states that “And I further declare and make known, that such persons [that is, African-American men] of suitable condition, will be received into the armed service of the United States to garrison forts, positions, stations, and other places, and to man vessels of all sorts in said service.” It was not until 1948 that President Harry S. Truman’s Executive Order 9981 ended the segregation in the U.S. military. Through that time, African Americans would voluntarily participate in the United States’ military because of the benefits that it brings, for a paying job, and to gain their recognition in society.
Throughout time, whites in the military did not like the idea of working, and practically living, with the African American soldiers. For example, during the time of the War of
…show more content…
Many were robbed of this promise due to segregation. “As yet there are no educational facilities for the Negro.” (Jim Crow in Army) There was no educational facilities for the black soldier to receive their guidance in a trade nor able to continue their previous education. Black Union soldiers did not receive equal pay nor equal treatment. They were paid $10 a month, with a deduction of $3 for clothing. In contrast, white soldiers were paid $13 per month without a clothing deduction but instead a plus of $3 allowance for clothing. It was not until June of 1864 did Congress granted the requirement for equal pay in the