How Did Colonel Robert Gould Shaw Recruit African American

In the early 19th century, slavery had been the main issue in America. The issue of slavery got critical that it separated America. The north (Union) prohibited slavery in America, while the south (Confederate) allowed slavery. However, majority of African-Americans were treated poorly in America. In the Union Army, Colonel Robert Gould Shaw was given “to raise and command one of the first regiments of African American troops in the Union army, the 54th Massachusetts Infantry, by Massachusetts Governor John A. Andrew.” I believe that Colonel Robert Gould Shaw wanted to prove that African-Americans had a purpose in America through discipline, assistance and rewards.

During the Civil War, Colonel Robert Gould Shaw consistently wrote letters to his family about the 54th Massachusetts Infantry and any updates on his troops. Colonel Robert Gould Shaw was an abolitionist. Colonel Robert Gould Shaw writes in his letter that the 54th Massachusetts Infantry works harder as the white troops do and they understand their limits and boundaries. Colonel Robert Gould Shaw writes:

Faster than white troops, it seems to me. They are almost grave and sedate under instruction...and they restrain themselves. But the moment they are dismissed from drill...every tongue is relaxed and every ivory tooth is visible... and you would not know from the sound of it that this is an army camp. They must have learned this from long hours of meaningless, inhuman work... to set their minds free so quickly. It gives them great energy. There is no doubt that we will leave this state... as fine a regiment as any that has marched.

Colonel Robert Gould Shaw knew that the 54th Massachusetts Infantry would most likely