**Original title:** WW1 Black Soldier RPPC Uniform Handsome Clean Shaved Real Photo Post Card **Rewritten Title:** World War 1 Clean Shaved Black Soldier Uniform Real Photo Postcard
An African American soldier is depicted, likely from the World War I era, identifiable by the distinctive "overseas cap" and the high-collared service coat (often M1917 or similar) characteristic of U.S. Army uniforms during the late 1910s and early 1920s. Over 350,000 African Americans served in the U.S. armed forces during WWI, predominantly in segregated units, contributing significantly to the Allied war effort.
Despite facing pervasive racism, discrimination, and often relegated to labor battalions, these soldiers demonstrated valor and patriotism. Their service, particularly that of combat units like the 369th Infantry Regiment (Harlem Hellfighters) who fought under French command, underscored the stark contrast between fighting for democracy abroad and the racial injustice prevalent in the United States, galvanizing the "New Negro" movement and early civil rights advocacy upon their return.
Despite facing pervasive racism, discrimination, and often relegated to labor battalions, these soldiers demonstrated valor and patriotism. Their service, particularly that of combat units like the 369th Infantry Regiment (Harlem Hellfighters) who fought under French command, underscored the stark contrast between fighting for democracy abroad and the racial injustice prevalent in the United States, galvanizing the "New Negro" movement and early civil rights advocacy upon their return.
