The Legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers

By Carlie StonebrakerJuly 29, 2024

FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas – The Buffalo Soldiers, a group of African American Soldiers who served in the post-Civil War era, hold a significant role in American History for their contributions to the nation’s development and their perseverance in the face of adversity.

Although no one is certain of how they got the name “Buffalo Soldiers,” there are theories. One theory claims the nickname arose because of the Soldiers’ dark, curly hair which resembled the fur of a buffalo. Another theory is that the Soldiers fought so valiantly and fiercely that the Native Americans referred to them as they did the mighty buffalo.

The Buffalo Soldiers formed in 1866, when congress established six all-Black regiments to help rebuild the country after the Civil War. These regiments were primarily stationed in the Western frontier, where they were tasked with duties to include protecting settlers, constructing roads, and engaging in military campaigns against hostile Native American tribes.  They also fought courageously in the Battle of San Juan Hill, the Battle of El Caney, and the Battle of Las Guasimas.

Although slavery was abolished the year before in 1865, the Buffalo Soldiers still faced prejudice and discrimination - among all other battles they had to face, that was one of the greatest ones. Over time, they proved themselves to the nation, but it did not come without struggle and sacrifice.

“The ‘Buffalo Soldier’ is an important piece of the story of our expanding nation,” said Bryan P. Howard, Fort Sam Houston Museum curator. ”Making up nearly 20 percent of the frontier Army, they also proved to a nation struggling with inequity after the Civil War that the color of a person’s skin made no difference in their ability to be a good Soldier.”

102-year-old Robert Dixon was recognized as the last surviving Buffalo Soldier.

Through service and sacrifice for a nation who once didn’t believe in them, the Buffalo Soldiers eventually earned the nation’s trust and respect, leaving an impact on the Army’s history. We hope their legacy will continue to inspire current and future generations through the strong perseverance and determination they had.