Legislation1866
Buffalo Soldiers Regiments Established
Congress passed the Army Reorganization Act, creating six all-Black regiments in the regular U.S. Army, later consolidated into four: the 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 24th and 25th Infantry. Native Americans gave these soldiers the name "Buffalo Soldiers," which they wore with pride.
Why It Matters
The Buffalo Soldiers served with distinction across the American frontier and in every major conflict through World War II, demonstrating the contributions of African Americans to national defense even while facing discrimination at home.