The African American Military Experience: From Revolution to Civil Rights (Osher Online)

Cost: $60

Dates

• Wed., Oct. 7-Nov. 11, 4-5:30 pm

Location: Online

With John Langellier, Historian

African Americans have served in every U.S. military conflict, fighting for both their country and their own rights. From Black patriots in the Revolutionary War to the 180,000 African Americans who fought for the Union in the Civil War, their contributions have shaped American history. After the war, Black soldiers gained congressional approval to enlist in the peacetime Army, leading to the formation of the “Buffalo Soldiers.” This course traces their service from the War of 1812 to World War II, highlighting their valor in conflicts abroad and their struggle against segregation and discrimination at home. It is the story of their resilience, sacrifice, and fight for equality in a nation that often failed to recognize their service.

OLLI members only. Register for Osher Online classes by Sept. 15.

See all Osher Online classes.

Class #: 44082

Registration is now open for OLLI members. Non-members may register starting Sept. 3.

Lohn Langellier

John Langellier has spent decades researching African Americans in the U.S. military, beginning in the 1960s. His work includes articles and books such as More Work Than Glory: Buffalo Soldiers in the United States Army, 1866–1916 and Buffalo Soldiers in Arizona, and an extensive National Park Service study on Buffalo Soldiers from the Eastern Seaboard to Hawaii. He has consulted and produced documentaries on African Americans in the armed forces for A&E and PBS, curated museum exhibits, developed curricula, and delivered programs across the U.S. and Europe.