Black Soldiers, Spies and More in the Civil War

Front

Based on the views of Frederick Douglass, what did black men do during the Civil War that earned them the right to U.S. citizenship?

Back

Fought bravely in the Union Army

Answer explanation

Frederick Douglass emphasized that black men earned their right to U.S. citizenship by fighting bravely in the Union Army during the Civil War, demonstrating their commitment to the nation and its ideals.

Front

Why did Lincoln hesitate to arm black soldiers initially?

Back

He feared alienating northern whites and Border States.

Answer explanation

Lincoln initially hesitated to arm black soldiers because he feared it would alienate northern whites and the Border States, which were crucial for the Union's war effort.

Front

What did General David Hunter do in the southeastern coastal areas in 1862?

Back

Issued a call for blacks to serve in the army

Answer explanation

In 1862, General David Hunter issued a call for blacks to serve in the army, marking a significant step towards the inclusion of African Americans in the Union forces during the Civil War.

Front

Approximately how many black soldiers were enrolled in the Union army by the end of the Civil War?

Back

186,000

Answer explanation

By the end of the Civil War, approximately 186,000 black soldiers had enrolled in the Union army, significantly contributing to the war effort and marking a pivotal moment in American history.

Front

Which regiment was entirely staffed by black officers? Options: 54th Massachusetts Regiment, General Butler's Corps d'Afrique, 1st South Carolina Regiment, 104th Colored Regiment

Back

General Butler's Corps d'Afrique

Answer explanation

The correct answer is General Butler's Corps d'Afrique, which was unique for being entirely staffed by black officers during the Civil War, unlike the other regiments listed.

Front

What was the fate of black soldiers captured by the South during the Civil War?

Back

They were often enslaved or killed.

Answer explanation

During the Civil War, black soldiers captured by the South were often enslaved or killed, reflecting the harsh realities of racial attitudes and policies at the time. This choice highlights the severe consequences they faced.

Front

What significant event occurred at Fort Pillow on April 12, 1864?

Back

Black soldiers were massacred after surrendering.

Answer explanation

On April 12, 1864, at Fort Pillow, Confederate forces massacred Black soldiers after they had surrendered, highlighting the brutal treatment of African American troops during the Civil War.

Front

What daring exploit did Major General Gilmore commend black soldiers for on March 7, 1863?

Back

Rescuing ninety-one black people from slavery

Answer explanation

On March 7, 1863, Major General Gilmore commended black soldiers for their bravery in rescuing ninety-one black people from slavery, highlighting their significant contribution to the fight for freedom.

Front

What action did Sgt. William Walker take that led to his court-martial and execution?

Back

Leading a protest for equal pay

Answer explanation

Sgt. William Walker was court-martialed and executed for leading a protest for equal pay, which was seen as a challenge to military authority and discipline.

Front

What year did the War Department begin to grant equal pay to black soldiers?

Back

1864

Answer explanation

The War Department began granting equal pay to black soldiers in 1864, addressing the disparities that had existed since the Civil War began. This was a significant step towards equality in the military.