
Black Soldiers also comprised the majority of two battalions and three companies, collectively referred to as Free Men of Color, and served in integrated Louisiana militia units. Slaves, as well as free Black Soldiers, constructed forts around the city in preparation for the impending British invasion. Many Black Soldiers fought in the Battle of New Orleans. As Henry Laurens of South Carolina stated, “ one of those who dare trust in Providence for defense and security of their own liberty while they enslave and wish to continue in slavery thousands who are as well entitled to freedom as themselves.” A monument to the regiment’s courage was erected in Portsmouth, R.I.

Some Americans realized the irony of enslaved Black people fighting under the banner of the Declaration of Independence. Unlike their white counterparts, these Black Soldiers did not receive any compensation for their service after the war.

14, 1781, they took part in the assault and capture of Redoubt 10. They successfully held their line for four hours against British-Hessian assaults, enabling the entire American Army to escape a trap.

29, 1778, they fought in the battle of Rhode Island on Aquidneck Island. In July 1778, the 1st Rhode Island Regiment, the first all-Black military unit in America, was assembled into service under the command of white officers.
