United States Colored Troops (USCT)

The United States Colored Troops (USCT) were regiments of African American soldiers who served in the Union Army during the American Civil War from 1863 to 1865. Authorized by the Emancipation Proclamation, these troops fought for freedom, equal rights, and the Union cause. Comprised of formerly enslaved individuals and free Black men, the USCT played a significant role in major battles, contributing to the Union’s victory. Their service not only helped end slavery but also challenged racial prejudices, paving the way for future civil rights advancements in the United States.