Established in 1866 following a Congressional act that lifted a prior ban, the Buffalo Soldiers comprised the first standing African American regiments in the United States Army. Four regiments were formed for service in the Western territories. These soldiers fought with distinction throughout their history, overcoming racial challenges and earning the respect of both allies and adversaries.
Origins and Early Service
Many Buffalo Soldiers were former slaves who joined seeking opportunities unavailable in civilian life. Despite facing poverty and often illiteracy, they received a $13 monthly wage, food, and access to basic education during their five-year enlistments. With primarily white officers, these regiments were stationed throughout the West, protecting settlers, mail routes, and cattle drives in addition to engaging in combat with Native American tribes. Their posts stretched from Fort Walla Walla in Washington to Fort Apache in Arizona.
By 1867, the Buffalo Soldiers were thrust into the heart of the Indian Wars, participating in most major campaigns until the early 1890s. Comprising roughly twenty percent of U.S. forces, they faced renowned tribes like the Apache, Comanche, and Sioux across the Great Plains and Southwest. Their nickname likely originated from Plains tribes who noted the similarity between their hair and a buffalo’s mane, and who admired the soldiers’ fighting spirit.
The 1870 Battle of Kickapoo Springs highlighted their courage. Troop F of the 9th Cavalry, led by Sgt. Emanuel Stance, successfully recovered two kidnapped children and valiantly repelled Native American rustlers. Stance was awarded the first of eighteen Medals of Honor earned by the Buffalo Soldiers.
Answering the Call in the Spanish-American War and Beyond
The explosion of the U.S.S. Maine in 1898 ignited the Spanish-American War, thrusting the nation into conflict with Spain. Due to the traditionally small size of the standing U.S. Army, the war demanded seasoned troops. Four regiments of Buffalo Soldiers – the 9th and 10th Cavalry, and the 24th and 25th Infantry – comprising nearly 15,000 men, were mobilized for service.
These experienced soldiers saw action in key engagements, including the famed Battle of San Juan Hill. Charging alongside Theodore Roosevelt’s Rough Riders, the Buffalo Soldiers faced a barrage of enemy fire as they pressed uphill. Despite heavy losses and chaotic intermingling of units, a contingent from the 10th Cavalry became the first to crest the summit. Future General of the Army John J. “Black Jack” Pershing, then serving with the 10th Cavalry, later praised the Buffalo Soldiers’ valor in his reports.
Following their service in Cuba, the Buffalo Soldiers were deployed to fight in the Philippine-American War (1899-1903). However, the conflict presented moral difficulties for some African American soldiers who felt sympathy for the Filipinos facing discriminatory treatment. Harsh conditions and discrimination contributed to an uncharacteristic rise in desertions among Buffalo Soldiers, who historically maintained the Army’s lowest desertion rates.
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Buffalo Soldiers: A Legacy of Service and Perseverance
After their inception during the Civil War, the Buffalo Soldier regiments served with distinction on the Western frontier. Their duties ranged from maintaining order and patrolling territories to trailblazing in Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks. The iconic hat of today’s Park Rangers traces its origins to the Buffalo Soldiers’ uniform. An innovative unit within these regiments even experimented with bicycles for long-range patrols.
The Buffalo Soldiers’ service extended into the early 20th century. Prior to the US involvement in World War I, tensions flared along the Mexican border due to raids by Mexican rebels. General “Black Jack” Pershing led an expedition to capture Pancho Villa, with the 10th Cavalry being the only Buffalo Regiment to participate. Yet, when America entered World War I, the original Buffalo Soldier regiments remained stateside while newly formed Black divisions were deployed overseas.
Overcoming Racism and Injustice
Despite their valor and sacrifice, the Buffalo Soldiers faced deeply entrenched racism. Segregation within the US Army meant limited opportunities and a struggle for basic respect. Buffalo Soldiers often endured Jim Crow laws, violence, and discrimination within the Western Territories. Their legacy is one of resilience and determination against adversity, proving that Black soldiers were capable of exemplary service. The Buffalo Soldiers’ enduring commitment paved the way for the military’s desegregation in 1948.
