"Whose War Was It? The Influence of Race on War in Western Arkansas and Indian Territory (1863-1865)"
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Noon to 1 p.m.
Arkansas Studies Institute, Room 124
By Maj. John P. Ringquist, Department of History, United States Military Academy
About the lecture: The impact of African American troops on the outcome of the Civil War is undisputed. The First Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry Regiment (later known as the 79th United States Colored Troops) was among the first of the North's African American regiments and fought in some of the fiercest battles of the Civil War in Indian Territory and Arkansas. Black troops overcame initial skepticism and proved themselves willing and able to fight, playing a valuable role in combat and in peacekeeping after the war. African American soldiers served the U.S. Army on the western frontier well and established a record of brave and competent service despite enemies on both sides of the lines and lack of initial support at home.
Bring a sack lunch; drinks and dessert provided. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 501-320-5717 or visit www.butlercenter.org.