Harlem Hellfighters

This documentary presents the story of the 369th Infantry Regiment of the New York National Guard 15 Regiment. An all African American unit, the 369th fought in World War I under the French Flag because the United States refused to have African American soldiers in combat. The 369th compiled an astounding war record and were decorated by the French government. But when they returned home to the United States, they were subjected to the racism of the era, and discovered their service in World War I meant nothing to their fellow Americans. Harlem Hellfighters would be useful for classes on African American History, American History, European History, Cultural History and civics. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.

Vocabulary Discussion Questions

  1. The Harlem Hellfighters fought in World War I, almost eighty years ago. Why has it taken so long for them to be recognized, and for a monument to be built in the honor of Sergeant Henry Johnson, the first American to win the Croix de Guerre?
  2. The Harlem Hellfighters fought under the French Flag in World War I, not the American. What does this say about American racial attitudes during the period?
  3. Like many African American soldiers before them in the Civil War and the Spanish-American War, soldiers of the 369th wanted to prove their 'worth' as men. Why was it important or even necessary for them to prove their 'worth.'
  4. Immediately after the Spanish-American war, Theodore Roosevelt praised the African American soldiers who fought in the war. Yet later he distanced himself from this position. Why did Roosevelt change his views?
  5. Under the direction of Lieutenant James Reese Europe, the 369th had the most impressive military band in World War I. What role did 'Big Jim Europe's' band play in the history of the 369th?
  6. How did the German army use the racism of the United States to attempt to influence the 369th?
  7. A veteran of the Harlem Hellfighters declares that everything changed for African Americans after World War I. How did the experience of World War I contribute to African Americans' quest for civil rights in the 20th century?

Extended Activities

  1. Research both African American newspapers and magazines (such as The Amsterdam News or the NAACP's Crisis) and mainstream newspapers and magazines. Compare how these newspapers/magazines reported the story of the 369th.
  2. Imagine that you are a member of the Harlem Hellfighters. Write an account of the conditions you might have faced when you returned to the United States.
  3. Contact your local veteran's association and try to locate an African American World War II veteran. Write a letter to him inquiring about the conditions of the army (which was still segregated during World War II) during his time of service.

Classroom Materials
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