The story of America’s first Black combat regiment in World War I.

[00:00.15]In the early 1900s, the United States existed as a nation torn by racial divisions.
[00:06.67]Jim Crow laws enforced segregation everywhere.
[00:10.57]Separate schools, separate bathrooms, even separate seating on public transport.
[00:16.13]Black Americans, especially in the South, faced harsh realities.
[00:20.94]Systemic racism, voter disenfranchisement, daily humiliation, and the constant threat of violence from groups like the Ku Klux Klan.
[00:29.89]Despite this environment, a strong sense of patriotism brewed in black communities.
[00:35.28]Many believed that volunteering for military service was a path toward respect, and the promise of genuine equality.
[00:42.61]When World War I erupted in 1914, black Americans closely watched events in Europe.
[00:49.02]By the time the US entered the war in 1917, thousands saw enlistment not just as a duty, but as a chance to prove their worth as full citizens.
[00:59.52]However, the US Army had other ideas.
[01:02.97]Segregation ruled the ranks as it did society.
[01:06.40]Most black soldiers were consigned to labor, supply, and support roles far from the front lines.
[01:12.50]Despite this, one unique unit emerged.
[01:16.73]The 15th New York National Guard.
[01:19.72]A proud formation from New York City destined to become the legendary 369th Infantry Regiment.

In the early 1900s, the United States existed as a nation torn by racial divisions. Jim Crow laws enforced segregation everywhere; Separate schools, separate bathrooms, even separate seating on public transport. Black Americans, especially in the South, faced harsh realities: systemic racism, voter disenfranchisement, daily humiliation, and the constant threat of violence from groups like the Ku Klux Klan. Despite this environment, a strong sense of patriotism brewed in Black communities. Many believed that volunteering for military service was a path toward respect and the promise of genuine equality.

When World War One erupted in 1914, Black Americans closely watched events in Europe. By the time the U.S. entered the war in 1917, thousands saw enlistment not just as a duty, but as a chance to prove their worth as full citizens. However, the U.S. Army had other ideas. Segregation ruled the ranks as it did society; most Black soldiers were consigned to labor, supply, and support roles far from the front lines. 

Despite this, one unique unit emerged: the 15th New York National Guard - a proud formation from New York City destined to become the legendary 369th Infantry Regiment.

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