African-American Soldiers in the Civil War: Fighting for Freedom (Civil War Library)
Grade 4-6–Ford discusses the laws and practices that hindered African Americans from becoming soldiers as well as the inequalities they experienced once the need for more Union men increased, leading Congress to pass legislation permitting black recruitment. Several regiments, such as the 54th Massachusetts and the First Louisiana Native Guards, are hailed for their bravery. The text, illustrations, photographs, and time line all play an important role in conveying the struggles and triumphs experienced by these men, despite the prejudice against them. Emphasizing a subject that is not often addressed when teaching the Civil War, this book can also be used in character-education units on such topics as courage and perseverance.–Tracy Bell, Durham Public Schools, NCCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.