54th Massachusetts Infantry

The 54th Massachusetts Infantry was one of the first African American units formed during the Civil War, established in 1863. Composed mainly of freed slaves and African Americans from northern states, its members fought bravely to prove their bravery and fight for freedom and equality. The regiment is famous for their heroic assault on Fort Wagner in South Carolina, demonstrating their courage and challenging stereotypes about Black soldiers. Their service helped shift public opinion and contributed to the eventual abolition of slavery, making them an important symbol of African American contribution and the fight for civil rights during the war.