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Colonel Thomas W. Higginson, a white Massachusetts clergyman and abolitionist, commanded the First South Carolina Infantry, which was made up of former slaves. After his first skirmish with confederate troops, Higginson celebrated his men's courage: "No officer in this regiment now doubts that the key to the successful prosecution of this war lies in the unlimited employment of black troops. . . . Instead of leaving their and families to fight they are fighting for their homes and families." After the spring of 1863, the federal government did all it could to maximize the number of black soldiers. Eventually, ex-slaves and free blacks filled 145 Union regiments. Throughout the war, however, policy required that blacks serve under white commissioned officers.

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Q: Why did the uniion change policy in 1863 to allow black men to serve in the army?
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Why did the union change policy in 1863 to allow black men to serve in the army?

Colonel Thomas W. Higginson, a white Massachusetts clergyman and abolitionist, commanded the First South Carolina Infantry, which was made up of former slaves. After his first skirmish with confederate troops, Higginson celebrated his men's courage: "No officer in this regiment now doubts that the key to the successful prosecution of this war lies in the unlimited employment of black troops. . . . Instead of leaving their homes and families to fight they are fighting for their homes and families." After the spring of 1863, the federal government did all it could to maximize the number of black soldiers. Eventually, ex-slaves and free blacks filled 145 Union regiments. Throughout the war, however, policy required that blacks serve under white commissioned officers.


How did black soldiers aid in the civil war?

In the civil war black people aided the cause by escaping from the south and fighting in the north causing a drastic change in numbers and ability to win. With the black leaving, the south was also dreadfully out of economy since most of their income was from black slaves.


How did a Philip Randolph finally get president Truman to change the way military treated its black soldiers?

He planned a protest march in front of the White House


How did A Philip Randolph get Truman to change the way the military treated black soldiers?

Answer: he promised to fight against the draft if changes will not made Explanation: Apex


When did congress allow black soldiers join the union army?

Congress allowed black soldiers to join the Union Army in July 1862, with the passage of the Second Confiscation and Militia Act. This act authorized the military enlistment of African Americans and paved the way for the formation of the United States Colored Troops (USCT).