JOURNAL ARTICLE

The 54TH Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Is Formed.

  • Published In: BAVUAL: The African Heritage Magazine, 2026, v. 5, n. 1. P. 12 1 of 3

  • Database: Sociology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Jones, Kristen; Castro, Lorie D. 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the 54th Massachusetts Infantry, the first all-black regiment in U.S. history, formed on January 26, 1863, following the Emancipation Proclamation. The regiment, led by Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, faced significant challenges, including discrimination and unequal pay, yet demonstrated exceptional bravery during the Battle of Fort Wagner on July 18, 1863. Despite suffering heavy casualties, the 54th's valor helped to prove the capability of black soldiers in combat, contributing to a shift in perceptions regarding their role in the military. The legacy of the 54th Massachusetts continues to inspire and is commemorated through various cultural works and memorials. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:BAVUAL: The African Heritage Magazine. 2026/01, Vol. 5, Issue 1, p12
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:2769-9110
  • Accession Number:190951793
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of BAVUAL: The African Heritage Magazine is the property of Birkett Communications, Inc and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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