Loucious Windom
History 2381
Professor Antrece Baggétt
October 11, 2013
American history is full of great soldiers who have lost their lives for the greater good. This greater good consisted of freedom for America and other countries we protected. With so many wars in American history (over 16) there is one group of soldiers that have participated in every war America has taken part in. They are called the Buffalo Soldiers. They were one of the most influential groups of soldiers in history. When you think about how the African Americans have been treated and for a race of people who were never wanted, they were always needed.1 The land of the free and the home of the brave haven’t always been true in those aspects to the Buffalo Soldiers. Their experience was documented and is now on display for some Americans to see.
Who were the Buffalo Soldiers and the significance of their role?
In 1867 there were two newly formed military units. The 9th and 10th Calvary went to the American West. These two regiments were the first permanent regiments made up of African Americans. This group had no identifying name but the 9th and 10th Calvary until they came in contact with the Cheyenne Indians. Speculation is that the Cheyenne Indians called these Cavalries the Buffalo Soldiers because of their buffalo skinned coats, dark skin, and curly hair. Others say that the Cheyenne Indians viewed these Cavalries as strong and fought courageously like the buffalo. Others also say that when the American Bison (one of the many names that were used to describe the Buffalo soldiers) wounded or cornered, they fought ferociously, displaying uncommon stamina and courage, and that was identical to the black man in battle. The actual Cheyenne translation was Wild Buffalo. The Buffalo Soldiers have participated in every American War and been assigned to the most crucial and desolate posts. The work and dedication of the