Revisit: THE ANTI-ABOLITION RIOTS (1834)

In October, 1834 riots broke out in New York City spurred by a confluence of events: the fiery oratory of abolitionist Protestant ministers (many of whom were also nativist and anti-Catholics); the growing social assertiveness of former enslaved people and of free-born African-Americans in the city; the growth of Jacksonian democracy which lauded working class white males; and the influx of Irish Catholics who were … Continue reading Revisit: THE ANTI-ABOLITION RIOTS (1834)

revisit: THE BATTLE OF MILLIKEN’S BEND (1863)

Milliken’s Bend was a small community in Louisiana located on the west bank of the Mississippi River, about 15 miles above Vicksburg. It was near the border of Madison and Carroll Parishes (now East Carroll Parish). Cotton and corn were the primary crops, and hundreds of slaves toiled on numerous plantations in the area. Indeed, African Americans composed between 75% and 90% of the population … Continue reading revisit: THE BATTLE OF MILLIKEN’S BEND (1863)

Revisit: BATTLE OF ISLAND MOUND (1862)

The Battle of Island Mound, on Oct 29th, 1862, marked the first significant combat involving Black soldiers in the Civil War. Though a small engagement, it showcased the bravery and capability of the 1st Kansas Colored Infantry Regiment, garnering praise and confidence from Union supporters. This event has since been commemorated with a statue and a historic site in Missouri. Continue reading Revisit: BATTLE OF ISLAND MOUND (1862)

Revisit: THE BATTLE OF THE CRATER, PETERSBURG, VIRGINIA (JUNE 15-18, 1864)

The Richmond-Petersburg campaign in the Civil War saw Union forces led by Grant, Meade, and Burnside against Confederate forces led by Lee in trench warfare. The Union’s attempt to end the siege of Petersburg with a tunnel and explosion failed, leading to high casualties. This battle ultimately contributed to the formation of the XXV Corps, comprising black soldiers and white officers. Continue reading Revisit: THE BATTLE OF THE CRATER, PETERSBURG, VIRGINIA (JUNE 15-18, 1864)