Buffalo Soldiers by the Decades

From the American Revolution to the present day, African Americans have fought for the United States. It wasn’t until 1866 that African Americans had the opportunity to enter the ranks of the Regular Army. Until that time, they were only able to fight for liberty during war.

The Buffalo Soldier regiments went on to serve the U.S. Army with distinction and honor for nearly the next nine decades. The storied Buffalo Soldiers regiments came to an end during the Korean War and the institution of Executive Order 9981.

Here we break down the history of the Buffalo Soldiers by decade from the 1860s to the 1950s. Follow along and discover the world of the Buffalo Soldiers.

 
Black and white photo of numerous people standing in and on a stage coach.
Buffalo Soldiers in the 1860s

Discover the people, places, and events of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1860s

Black and white photo of African American cavalry soldiers in formation
Buffalo Soldiers in the 1870s

Discover the people, places, and events of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1870s

Sepia colored photograph with African American soldiers standing in three rows. 1880s is written
Buffalo Soldiers in the 1880s

Discover the people, places, and events of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1880s

Two rows of African American soldiers in formal uniform holding their parade helmets  on their left.
Buffalo Soldiers in the 1890s

Discover the people, places, and events of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1890s

Buffalo Soldiers in formal uniforms sitting in 4 rows together. All looking stoic at viewer
Buffalo Soldiers in the 1900s

Discover the people, places, and events of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1900s

Four African Americans standing shoulder to shoulder in camp from The Big Burn in 1910.
Buffalo Soldiers in the 1910s

Discover the people, places, and events of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1910s

A group of Buffalo Soldiers standing in a large group in 6 rows. They are looking at the camera.
Buffalo Soldiers in the 1920s

Discover the people, places, and events of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1920s

African American Cavalry soldiers on horseback saluting during a ceremony at West Point
Buffalo Soldiers in the 1930s

Discover the people, places, and events of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1930s

African Americans soldiers using mine detectors in World War Two.
Buffalo Soldiers in the 1940s

Discover the people, places, and events of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1940s

Black and white photo of a group of African American soldiers with combat gear on the back of truck
Buffalo Soldiers in the 1950s

Discover the people, places, and events of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 1950s

Color photograph of gold star medal hanging from blue ribbon necklace
Medal of Honor Recipients

Since the 1860s there have been over 90 African Americans awarded the Medal of Honor. Follow this link to discover their stories.

Silhouettes of army soldiers carrying rifles marching in line behind an American flag
The Veterans Podcast

Watch new podcast episodes featuring WWII African American vets, Mr. Harold J. Warren, Jr. & former WAC 1st Lt. Vivian "Millie" Bailey.

Last updated: December 2, 2022

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