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Carte de Visite, Lieutenant Stephen A. Swails, c. 1863 (b / w photo)
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Carte de Visite, Lieutenant Stephen A. Swails, c. 1863 (b / w photo)
2905953 Carte de Visite, Lieutenant Stephen A. Swails, c.1863 (b/w photo) by American Photographer, (19th century); Massachusetts Historical Society, Boston, MA, USA; (add.info.: Stephen Atkins Swails (23 February 1832 - 17 May 1900) was a soldier in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Although originally enlisting as a private, he was the first African-American soldier promoted to commissioned rank, as a line officer, in that conflict, as evidenced by the U.S. War Departments initial refusal of that promotion due to his " African descent."
From the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment photographs); eMassachusetts Historical Society; American, out of copyright
Media ID 23446896
© Massachusetts Historical Society / Bridgeman Images
Civil Infantry Length Massachusetts Regiment Three Quarter Union Unionist Volunteer 54th
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures Lieutenant Stephen A. Swails, a remarkable figure in American history during the Civil War era. Taken around 1863 by an anonymous American photographer, this Carte de Visite showcases Lt. Swails seated in his Union Army uniform. Lt. Swails was not just any soldier; he was the first African-American soldier to be promoted to commissioned rank as a line officer during the Civil War. His promotion faced initial resistance from the U. S. War Department due to his "African descent" highlighting the racial prejudices of that time. The photograph is part of a collection belonging to the Massachusetts Historical Society in Boston, MA, USA and specifically relates to Lt. Swails' service with the renowned 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment - one of the first official African-American units formed during the war. In this portrait, Lt. Swails exudes strength and determination as he gazes confidently into the camera lens. The image captures him at three-quarter length, showcasing his military attire and conveying his commitment to serving his country. This photograph serves as a powerful reminder of both Lt. Stephen A. Swails' individual bravery and resilience, as well as representing countless other African-American soldiers who fought valiantly for their freedom during this tumultuous period in American history.
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