The First World War - Harlem Hell Fighters

This lesson explores the Harlem Hellfighters, an African American infantry unit in World War I. Students will learn about their experiences, challenges, and contributions through source analysis and class discussions. Activities include examining primary sources, discussing the historical context of racial discrimination, and understanding the significance of the Hellfighters’ bravery. The lesson concludes with a source analysis task to evaluate the reliability and perspectives of different historical sources.

Lesson Content and Activities:

Introduction:

Overview of the Harlem Hellfighters and their role in WWI.
Discussion of the racial discrimination faced by African Americans in 1914.
Who Were They:

Introduction to the 369th Infantry Regiment and their nickname “Hellfighters.”
African Americans in 1914:

Discuss the quote highlighting the discrimination faced by African Americans.
Identify problems from the quote.
The First World War:

Explain the enlistment of 350,000 African Americans and the discrimination within the US Army.
Discuss General Pershing’s role and the assignment of the 369th to French command.
Under French Command:

Explore the experiences of the Harlem Hellfighters in combat and their commendations.
Compare their treatment in France versus the USA.
Source Analysis:

Examine seven historical sources related to the Harlem Hellfighters.
Write paragraphs analysing each source’s content, purpose, and reliability.
Source Analysis Example:

Provide an example analysis of Source A.
Discuss as a class which sources are most useful in understanding the significance of the Harlem Hellfighters.
Group Activity:

Debate and vote on the top three most useful sources.
Resources:

Primary sources (poster, photograph, painting, reports)
Source analysis worksheet
Guided discussion questions
Taken from a series of over 30 First World War lessons made by Wolsey Academy. They provide a thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of 20th Century History and each lesson looks to focus on a range of historical skills and exam techniques to equip students with knowledge and transferable research, analysis and study skills.

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