July 18, 1863 — the 54th Massachusetts storms Fort Wagner
One of the first Black regiments in the Union Army led the assault on Fort Wagner, South Carolina. They took heavy losses and didn't take the fort — but the regiment's courage under fire helped turn public opinion toward Black enlistment nationwide.
Common Questions About July 18
What happened on July 18 in American history?
In 1863: the 54th Massachusetts storms Fort Wagner. One of the first Black regiments in the Union Army led the assault on Fort Wagner, South Carolina.
Why is July 18 significant?
One of the first Black regiments in the Union Army led the assault on Fort Wagner, South Carolina. They took heavy losses and didn't take the fort — but the regiment's courage under fire helped turn public opinion toward Black enlistment nationwide.
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