World War I and the Harlem Hellfighters

By the summer of 1918, the Allies took advantage of Germany's weakened front lines, launching a counter-offensive with over a million troops, including the Harlem Hellfighters. The Meuse-Argonne Offensive became the largest campaign in American history, aiming to push the enemy back to Germany's border. The 369th regiment played a crucial role in seizing the village of Sechault. Despite heavy casualties, the offensive led to the end of World War I with an armistice on November 11, 1918. The Hellfighters, having spent 191 days in combat, were honored by the French and became a symbol of Black Americans' service and the fight for equal rights.

What was the main reason the Allies were able to launch a counter-offensive in the summer of 1918?

• The Allies had superior numbers.

• The Allies had better technology.

• Germany's front lines were depleted.

• Germany was running out of food.

Which region was the focus of the largest campaign in American history during World War I?

• The Meuse-Argonne region

• The Eastern Front

• The Western Front

• The Italian Front

What was the critical task assigned to the Harlem Hellfighters during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive?

• Training new recruits

• Securing supply lines

• Capturing the village of Sechault

• Defending the French border

What was the outcome of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive for the U.S. forces?

• It was one of the deadliest battles with over 100,000 casualties.

• It resulted in a stalemate.

• It was a minor skirmish.

• It was a complete failure.

On what date did the armistice that ended World War I take effect?

• July 4, 1918

• November 11, 1918

• December 25, 1918

• January 1, 1919

How many days did the Harlem Hellfighters spend in combat during World War I?

• 191 days

• 100 days

• 365 days

• 50 days

What honor did the French bestow upon the Harlem Hellfighters for their bravery?

• The Medal of Honor

• The Croix de Guerre

• The Iron Cross

• The Victoria Cross

What was the significance of the Harlem Hellfighters crossing the Rhine River first?

• It marked the start of the war.

• It was a routine crossing.

• It was a strategic military move.

• It symbolized their victory and sacrifice.

What did the Harlem Hellfighters' service symbolize for Black Americans?

• A call for independence

• A demand for equal rights

• A push for economic reform

• A desire for isolationism

What message does the story of the Harlem Hellfighters convey about American identity?

• Service is limited to times of peace.

• All Americans, regardless of background, can serve the country.

• Only certain groups can serve the country.

• Military service is not important.