The Harlem Hellfighters

The Harlem Hellfighters

With military units still segregated in 1918, the 369th Infantry Regiment was composed of African American and African Puerto Rican soldiers. They were dubbed "The Harlem Hellfighters" by the Germans, who were impressed by their bravery and determination. The 369th spent 191 days under fire on the front line.

American newspapers covered their exploits in Europe -- not only in battle but miscellaneous anecdotes under the heading "The Humorous Negro." German propagandists seized upon the U.S.'s racial tension and addressed leaflets specifically for the African American soldiers.