How does the emancipation of slaves affect the Union army?

1 Answer
Jan 22, 2018

The emancipation of slaves was positive for the Union. 186000 former slaves joined the Union army and enlistment increased even more after the Emancipation Proclamation. Previously, they were often given menial tasks. After Emancipation however, the number of blacks that became soldiers increased. A notable regiment was the 54th Massachusetts Infantry, led by Rob Shaw. They fought bravely at a battle in Charleston in 1863.