Ocean State Libraries

Col. Robert Gould Shaw is the 25-year-old white son of Boston abolitionists who volunteers to command the first all-black 54th Regiment of the Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. Sgt. Maj. John Rawlins is the inspirational sergeant who unites the troops. Pvt. Trip is the runaway slave who embodies the indomitable spirit of the regiment. After months of tough training and eventual small battle experience, they are lead to glory in their final assault...

"In addition to tracking the evolution of the black Confederate myth, Levin explores the roles that African Americans performed in the army with a particular focus on the relationship between officers and their personal body servants or camp slaves. In contrast to claims that these men served as soldiers in racially integrated regiments, Levin demonstrates that regardless of the dangers faced in camp, on the march and on the battlefield their legal...

Franklin LeBaron Sharpes, a paratrooper with the 101st Airborne in Vietnam, fights to avenge his brother's death while he battles against reconciling with the father who deserted him.

Recounts the history of the first black unit integrated with a white infantry company since the Revolutionary War, exploring how the integration came about and its implications on American society during and after World War II.

Examines the United States' history of ethnic assimilation and racial strife through the experience of World War I regiments, the fabled Harlem Hell Fighters of the 369th infantry and the legendary "lost battalion" of the 77th division.

Discusses the role the buffalo soldiers played in the history of the United States.