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Why did the black soldiers of the Massachusetts 54th willingly march to their deaths?
Even as they fought to end slavery in the Confederacy, the African American soldiers of the 54th were fighting against another injustice as well. To protest against the inequity, the entire regiment–soldiers and officers alike–refused to accept their wages until Black and white soldiers earned equal pay for equal work.
What happened to the 54th Massachusetts at the battle of Fort Wagner?
While the 54th Massachusetts Infantry and nine other regiments in two brigades successfully scaled the parapet and entered Fort Wagner, they were driven out with heavy casualties and forced to retreat. After 60 days of shelling and siege, the Confederates abandoned Fort Wagner on September 7, 1863.
Why was Fort Wagner so important?
If captured, Fort Wagner would provide the U.S. an opportunity to bombard Fort Sumter and provide access into Charleston harbor itself, an important step in securing the city that many saw as the birthplace of the Civil War.
What battle did the 54th Massachusetts fight in?
During its service with the X Corps, the 54th Massachusetts took part in operations against Charleston, South Carolina, including the Battle of Grimball’s Landing on July 16, 1863, and the more famous Second Battle of Fort Wagner on July 18, 1863….
| 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment | |
|---|---|
| Size | 1,100 |
When did the 54th Massachusetts attack Fort Wagner?
This did not happen until the war was almost over. On July 18, 1863, the 54th Massachusetts prepared to storm Fort Wagner, which guarded the Port of Charleston. At dusk, Shaw gathered 600 of his men on a narrow strip of sand just outside Wagner’s fortified walls and readied them for action.
What was the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment known for?
The 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment was one of the most celebrated regiments of black soldiers that fought in the Civil War. Known simply as “the 54th,” this regiment became famous after the heroic, but ill-fated, assault on Fort Wagner, South Carolina.
What was the result of the Battle of Fort Wagner?
They lost almost half of their men attacking Fort Wagner. After the 54th Massachusetts withdrew from the fighting, supporting white regiments coming up behind them made their assault against the fort. These regiments also failed to take the fort suffering heavy casualties in the process.
How many men were killed at the 54th Massachusetts?
Fighting for control of the fort took place for about an hour when the determined Confederate defenders finally forced the 54th Massachusetts to retreat. With a total attacking force of 600 men, 272 were either killed, wounded, or captured. They lost almost half of their men attacking Fort Wagner.