Who Were The Buffalo Soldiers?
On July 28, 1866, the U.S. Congress, as part of a broad reorganization of the army, authorized creation of six “colored” army regiments. Largely in acknowledgment of the outstanding service of the more than 180,000 African-American volunteers who fought for the Union during the Civil War, black soldiers were allowed to enjoy the status of army “regulars” for the first time.
Four infantry and two cavalry regiments were created, which were composed entirely of African-American soldiers led by white commanding officers.
The original Buffalo Soldiers were the men who enlisted in these regiments: the 9th and 10th cavalries and the 38th, 39th, 40th and 41st infantries. A total of 5,000 names were on the original muster roll. Many joined for the adventure but, more often, they were seeking the opportunity to make a new beginning in the aftermath of slavery and to prove their equality with other men. They worked seven days a week and the starting wage for enlisted men was only $13 per month. However, this pay enabled them to buy land for farming or to start their own businesses. Many troopers served ten years or more and, after retirement, helped found thriving new communities.
Their first job as Buffalo Soldiers was helping to secure the western frontier, subduing the American Indians who resisted the exploration and population of their lands. They subsequently went on to perform a variety of duties on behalf of the U.S. government and to serve valiantly in numerous wars. Over the 82 years of the Buffalo Soldiers’ existence, 23 men received the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest recognition awarded by the U.S. government for military service. More than 200,000 African Americans served in World War I and more than 1 million served in World War II. Buffalo Soldiers of these periods became a part of the 92nd Infantry Division. Buffalo Soldiers (all black regiments) ceased to exist in 1948 when President Harry Truman signed Executive Order 9981 mandating equal treatment and opportunity for African-American servicemen.
How Did They Get Their Name?
The first black troopers were nicknamed “buffalo soldiers” by the Cheyenne Native American tribe in 1867. The Cheyenne term actually translates as “wild buffalo.” The Buffalo is revered by the Cheyenne and is a significant figure in Native American culture. The nickname was given out of respect and acknowledged the fierce fighting ability of the 10th Cavalry. Over time, Buffalo Soldiers became a generic term for all African-American soldiers.
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