On this date in 1863, the Fifty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment was one of the first official African American regiments in the United States Army during the Civil War. Formed on March 13, 1863, it was led by Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, a white officer, and included African American men who were formerly enslaved or free.

On July 18, 1863, the Fifty-fourth Regiment is famously known for its courageous assault on Fort Wagner, South Carolina. The fort was a Confederate stronghold, and the regiment’s attack was part of the Union’s efforts to capture it. Despite heavy resistance, the regiment fought valiantly, and many of its soldiers were killed or wounded, including Colonel Shaw, who died during the battle. The bravery demonstrated by the Fifty-fourth Massachusetts played a crucial role in proving the capability and valor of African American soldiers, significantly influencing the future recruitment of Black soldiers into the Union Army.

This battle, and the regiment’s overall contributions, marked an important moment in the Civil War, demonstrating the willingness of African Americans to fight for their freedom and contributing to the eventual Union victory.