HOW THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS RESCUED TEDDY ROOSEVELT AT SAN JUAN HILL

The history of the Buffalo Soldiers is a remarkable chapter in the story of African American military service. Formed in 1866 after the Civil War, the 9th and 10th Cavalry regiments were among the first peacetime regiments for African American soldiers. They played a critical role in helping to settle the western frontier, engaging in battles against Native American tribes and helping to establish order in newly acquired territories. Their bravery and discipline were undeniable, and they quickly earned respect for their capabilities. One of their most significant moments came during the Spanish-American War when they fought valiantly at the Battle of San Juan Hill. Amid heavy enemy fire, the Buffalo Soldiers distinguished themselves by charging up the hill alongside Theodore Roosevelt and his Rough Riders. When Roosevelt and his men found themselves pinned down, it was the Buffalo Soldiers who provided the crucial support necessary to regain control of the situation. Their actions at San Juan Hill were pivotal not only for the outcome of that battle but also served to solidify the place of African Americans in American military history, countering narratives that sought to diminish their contributions.