During the early stages of the Civil War, in April 1861, President Abraham Lincoln called for 75,000 troops to suppress the rebellion initiated by Southern states. Many African Americans were eager to fight, recognizing the profound implications the war could have on the institution of slavery. However, steeped in racial prejudice and legitimate fear of how armed Black men might be perceived in both the North and South, Lincoln's administration rejected Black volunteers

During the early stages of the Civil War, in April 1861, President Abraham Lincoln called for 75,000 troops to suppress the rebellion initiated by Southern states. Many African Americans were eager to fight, recognizing the profound implications the war could have on the institution of slavery. However, steeped in racial prejudice and legitimate fear of how armed Black men might be perceived in both the North and South, Lincoln's administration rejected Black volunteers.

The irony was chronicled by humorists and court jesters of the time who pointed out that Black Americans were fighting for the 'right to be kilt.’ We sought to risk our lives to serve a nation that refused us many fundamental rights, including the right to fight under its banner, stressing the painful reality of this paradox. This refusal served to remind African Americans that even in the fight against slavery, the nation still saw us as second-class citizens.

However, with the war dragging on and Union forces needing more troop support, attitudes began to shift. By 1862, some argued that African Americans could help tip the balance in the Union's favor. Later that year, Congress passed the Militia Act, which allowed African American men to serve as soldiers and laborers. 

Despite the barriers they faced, some 200,000 Black men went on to serve in the Union Army and Navy, with many making the ultimate sacrifice. Their bravery, loyalty, and combat success significantly secured Union victory and set a precedent for future military integration.

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References related to the information:

1. Berlin, I. (1992). "Who Freed the Slaves?: Emancipation and Its Meaning". In David W. Blight and Brooks D. Simpson (eds.). Union & Emancipation: Essays on Politics and Race in the Civil War Era. Kent, OH: Kent State University Press. 

2. Glatthaar, Joseph T (1990). Forged in Battle: The Civil War Alliance of Black Soldiers and White Officers. New York: Free Press. 

3. Moore, W. (2013). The struggle for Black inclusion in the American military: An overview. Black History Bulletin, 76(2), 6-12.