In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary story of the 369th Infantry Regiment, better known as the Harlem Hellfighters—a unit of Black soldiers who overcame systemic racism to make history during World War I. From their formation as the 15th New York National Guard to their transfer to French command, the Harlem Hellfighters shattered expectations, fighting on the front lines longer than any other American unit and earning accolades from the French government.
We’ll explore the stark contrasts in their treatment: relegated to menial labor and scorned by the U.S. Army, yet celebrated and respected by their French counterparts and civilians. You’ll hear the remarkable stories of men like Henry Johnson, who became a hero for his valor, and James Reese Europe, whose music helped introduce jazz to Europe.
This episode also delves into the U.S. government’s discomfort with the French embrace of these soldiers, President Wilson’s racist policies, and the bittersweet reality the Hellfighters faced upon their return home. Finally, we reflect on their lasting impact, from influencing the Harlem Renaissance to paving the way for future generations of Black Americans in the military, even as the fight for equality continues today.
Join us as we honor the courage, resilience, and legacy of the Harlem Hellfighters—an untold chapter of history that deserves to be celebrated.
Resources used for this episode.
Next week: Jeanne de Clisson, The Lionness of Brittany
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