African American Contributions in World War I and W.E.B. Du Bois's Legacy with Dr. Chad Williams

History Rage

In this episode of History Rage, Chad Williams, a historian specializing in African American military history at Brandeis University, discusses the often overlooked contributions of African Americans in World War I and the profound impact it had on civil rights. The conversation delves into the experiences of black soldiers, the role of W.E.B. Du Bois, and the lasting legacy on the broader struggle for equality.

African American Units in World War I:

• Segregation in the U.S. military during World War I.
• The experiences of black soldiers in the 92nd Division compared to the Harlem Hellfighters.
• The impact of racial segregation on their military service.

W.E.B. Du Bois and his Support for the War:

• W.E.B. Du Bois's significance as a black intellectual in American history.
• Du Bois's support for the war and its connection to the broader struggle for civil rights.
• The disillusionment that followed when the promised changes did not materialize.

African American Soldiers and Allies:

• Treatment of African American soldiers by different nations during World War I.
• Contrasting attitudes: The French vs. the British.
• The role of desperation in shaping the treatment of black soldiers.

Impact on Civil Rights Movement:

• The Red Summer of 1919 and the postwar racial violence faced by black veterans.
• Determination of African American veterans to fight for their rights upon returning.
• The groundwork laid during the 1920s and 30s influencing the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 60s.

W.E.B. Du Bois's Political Evolution:

• Du Bois's role as a pacifist supporting the war for the potential benefits.
• The disillusionment and the weight of his decision to support the war.
• Du Bois's evolution into a radical peace activist in the aftermath of World War II.

Individual Highlight: Colonel Charles Young:

• Colonel Charles Young's pivotal role as the highest-ranking black officer at the start of the war.
• His symbolic significance for African Americans.
• The tragic circumstances of his retirement and subsequent reinstatement.

Preserving and Documenting History:

• The growing interest in documenting African American involvement in wars.
• Steps to ensure accurate documentation and sharing of this history.
• The importance of educating the public about black contributions to wars.

You can, and should, read Chad’s book “Wounded World: W.E.B Du Bois and the First World War” which you can buy here and you can follow him on Twitter @Dr_ChadWilliams

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