They Were Good Soldiers: African Americans Serving in the Continental Army

The role of African Americans, free and enslaved, in the regiments of the Continental Army is not well-known; neither is the fact that relatively large numbers served in southern regiments and that the greatest number served alongside their white comrades in integrated units. John Rees will discuss black soldiers’ acceptance, service, and experiences during and after the War for American Independence, focusing on those who served in Continental regiments. African American women with the army will also be featured.

John U. Rees has been writing for almost 40 years on the experiences of common soldiers and women in the armies of the American Revolution. He has authored over 200 articles, most available online at https://tinyurl.com/JohnURees-articles. His first book, “They Were Good Soldiers: African Americans Serving in the Continental Army, 1775-1783 was published in 2019; his second, titled Don Troiani’s Black Soldiers in America’s Wars, 1754-1865, came out in January 2025.

Support for the Fall Lecture Series is provided by Friends of Saratoga Battlefield. Reservations are required due to limited space. Email U0FSQV9SZXNlcnZhdGlvbnMgfCBucHMgISBnb3Y= to reserve your seat!

You may also like the following events from Saratoga National Historical Park:

• This Wednesday, 8th October, 10:00 am, Become a Citizen Scientist! in Stillwater
• This Saturday, 11th October, 10:00 am, Homefront at the Schuyler Estate in Stillwater
• This Saturday, 11th October, 10:00 am, Soldier Encampment at the Battlefield in Stillwater