In 1866, Congress formed the first all black regiments in the U.S. Army. These men fought during the Indian Wars into the early 1890s, becoming known as "Buffalo Soldiers" for their courage and tenacity. When not fighting Indians, Buffalo Soldiers built forts and roads, escorted wagon trains, cattle drives, stage coaches and mail runs. They protected settlers from outlaws. Throughout their military campaigns lasting into the mid 1900s, many Buffalo Soldiers earned the distinguished Medal of Honor.
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