African American Soldiers
Photographer unknown
Library of Congress (LC-USZ62-109102 [b&w film copy neg].)

Taken in 1899, this photograph is of Company D, 8th Illinois Volunteer Regiment. It was included in an exhibit of photographs gathered for use in the American Negro Exhibit at the Paris Exposition, consisting of portraits and scenes of education, work, and daily life. The collection includes more than 360 photos presented by W.E.B. Du Bois.

Discussion Questions

What was the purpose of this photograph?

Who do you think took it?

What do you notice in the picture?

Does anything in the picture surprise you?

What do you think these men are like? (Point out various men in the picture.)

Find the man who is smiling. Is his attitude different from the others?

Do you think these men were good soldiers? Why or why not?

 

 

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