“Those Who Paved the Way”: A Detailed Look into the Contributions of the USCT in Tennessee

Abstract

This research paper discusses the significant yet often overlooked role of United States Colored Troops (USCT) in Tennessee during the American Civil War. As the Union Army faced manpower shortages due to heavy casualties, this led to the formation of USCT. Entirely composed of African American soldiers fighting for their freedom and the Union cause, these units were initially relegated to menial tasks, but through admirable efforts proved their capability in combat. In contrast, the Confederacy opposed arming Black individuals, fearing it would undermine their slave-based society. Despite the presence of approximately four million enslaved individuals in the South, the Confederacy’s refusal to employ them as combat soldiers limited their military potential. This paper looks to highlight the vital contribution of USCT to the Union’s success and the impact of their involvement in the war.