American History Tellers: Buffalo Soldiers | Cadets of Courage | Episode 2 Summary

Introduction

In the second episode of the American History Tellers series titled "Buffalo Soldiers | Cadets of Courage | 2," hosted by Lindsay Graham, Wondery delves deep into the courageous and tumultuous lives of the Buffalo Soldiers—the African American regiments of the United States Army—and the pioneering Black cadets at West Point during the late 19th century. This episode intricately weaves together military endeavors, personal struggles against systemic racism, and pivotal historical events that shaped both the soldiers' lives and the broader American landscape.

1. The Role of Buffalo Soldiers in the Frontier

The episode opens in December 1869, setting the stage in the Indian Territory near the Texas border. The Buffalo Soldiers of the 10th Cavalry, stationed at Fort Sill, face the daunting task of maintaining order amidst hostile Native American tribes and unlicensed traders.

“In 1869, Black soldiers of the 10th U.S. Cavalry were stationed at Fort Sill on the Kiowa Comanche reservation in modern-day western Oklahoma...”

Key Points:

• Primary Duties: The soldiers were responsible for preventing unlicensed merchants and whiskey peddlers from trading illicitly with Native American tribes, which fueled conflicts and potential wars.
• Challenging Environment: Operating in the harsh, isolated frontier with limited resources and constant threats from both nature and hostile groups.

2. James Webster Smith: The First Black Cadet at West Point

Parallel to the Buffalo Soldiers' narrative is the story of James Webster Smith, the first Black cadet admitted to West Point. His journey epitomizes the fight against racial prejudice and institutional barriers.

“In the spring of 1870, James Webster Smith arrived in West Point, New York with hopes of becoming the first black cadet in the 70-year history of the US Military Academy.”

Key Points:

• Admittance Despite Challenges: Smith overcame difficult entrance exams and racial harassment to secure his place at West Point.
• Isolation and Harassment: As the sole Black cadet, Smith endured relentless verbal and physical abuse, leading to feelings of loneliness and despair.
• Dismissal: In June 1874, after enduring years of mistreatment and being deemed deficient in philosophy studies, Smith was dismissed from West Point despite his perseverance.

Notable Quote (35:14):

James Webster Smith: “The other cadets constantly call me names… my life there is a living hell.”

3. Henry Ossian Flipper: Breaking Barriers

Following Smith's story, the episode introduces Henry Ossian Flipper, who becomes the second Black cadet at West Point and the first Black graduate.

“In 1873, another young black man entered West Point, Henry Ossian Flipper.”

Key Points:

• Academic Excellence and Resilience: Unlike Smith, Flipper maintained his composure under pressure, enduring isolation without retaliating against his peers.
• Graduation and Commission: In 1877, Flipper graduated and became the army's first Black commissioned officer, joining the 10th Cavalry at Fort Sill.
• Contributions: Flipper played significant roles in infrastructure projects like road and telegraph line construction and designed effective flood control systems, notably "Flipper's Ditch."

Notable Quote (35:43):

Narrator: “Henry Flipper faced one of the Army's most enduring color barriers and dared to break through.”

4. Racism and Violence within the Cavalry Units

The episode does not shy away from illustrating the systemic racism within the military structure, highlighting harrowing instances of violence perpetrated by white officers against Black soldiers.

Key Incidents:

• Private Charles Smith’s Murder (13:09):

  • Event: In June 1871, Lt. Robert Price, a white officer with a notorious reputation for mistreating Black soldiers, fatally shot Private Charles Smith in a drunken rage.
  • Aftermath: Godless retaliation ensued as Private Dandridge and others sought revenge. A Black sergeant intervened to prevent further bloodshed, but Price's fate remained uncertain due to the rarity of convictions against white officers.

  Notable Quote (14:15):

  Private Dandridge: “We can't let Price get away with this.”

• Captain Lee Humphreyville’s Atrocities (15:07):

  • Event: In December 1872, Captain Humphreyville exhibited extreme brutality, including forcing soldiers into icy creeks, severe beatings, and humiliating punishments.
  • Outcome: After persistent complaints and testimonies from within the regiment, Humphreyville was court-martialed, found guilty, and dismissed from service—an uncommon instance of accountability.

  Notable Quote (17:40):

  Narrator: “The violence of Robert Price and Lee Humphreyville lay bare the persistent racism among some of the white officers.”

5. The Red River War and Buffalo Soldiers’ Valor

The episode chronicles the Red River War (1874–1875), a pivotal conflict aimed at forcibly relocating Native American tribes to reservations.

Key Points:

• Trigger: The attack on Adobe Walls in June 1874 by a coalition of Comanche, Kiowa, and Southern Cheyenne heightened tensions and escalated the conflict.
• Military Response: President Grant abandoned his peace policy, deploying 3,000 troops, including the 9th and 10th Cavalry, to suppress the rebellion.
• Achievements: The Buffalo Soldiers played a central role in capturing nearly 400 Indians and thousands of animals, significantly contributing to the campaign’s success despite minimal recognition.

Notable Quote (26:18):

Narrator: “By January 1875, the army had forced most of the hostile Indians back onto the reservations.”

6. The Staked Plains Horror: A Testament to Hardship

In July 1877, an expedition led by Captain Nicholas Nolan resulted in the near-fatal Struggle for survival by the 10th Cavalry in the Staked Plains of Texas.

“In the blazing heat of July 1877, Grierson ordered Captain Nicholas Nolan to take a company to the staked plains…”

Key Points:

• Mission’s Failure: Due to extreme heat, inadequate water, and poor planning, the soldiers faced dehydration and heatstroke, leading to deaths and the abandonment of the mission.
• Aftermath: The incident, dubbed the "Staked Plains Horror," highlighted the severe environmental challenges and the regiment's resilience, despite the tragic losses.

Notable Quote (28:44):

Private: “Out here in the desert, it's every man for himself.”

7. The Legacy and Continuation of the Buffalo Soldiers

Despite facing relentless racism, environmental hardships, and internal conflicts, the Buffalo Soldiers continued to serve valiantly, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and perseverance.

Key Points:

• Henry Ossian Flipper’s Contributions: Flipper's strategic roles in infrastructure and active combat engagements solidified the regiment’s reputation.
• Victorio’s War (1880): The Buffalo Soldiers, under leaders like General Grierson and Flipper, meticulously pursued the Apache leader Victorio, ultimately contributing to his demise and the suppression of his band through strategic denial of resources.

Notable Quote (31:14):

Narrator: “The soldiers of the 9th and 10th cavalries had relentlessly pursued Victorio over thousands of miles, outmaneuvering and out fighting his forces.”

Conclusion

Episode two of American History Tellers masterfully showcases the dual struggles of the Buffalo Soldiers and the Black cadets at West Point against the backdrop of Reconstruction-era America. It underscores their unwavering determination to serve and lead despite systemic racism, environmental adversities, and personal tragedies. The episode not only honors their military achievements but also highlights the broader fight for civil rights and equality within the United States Army and American society at large.

“Henry Flipper faced one of the Army's most enduring color barriers and dared to break through.”

The episode sets the stage for further exploration in the series, promising to delve into subsequent challenges faced by the Buffalo Soldiers and the enduring impact of their legacy in American history.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• [00:56] Soldier: “Afternoon. Where are you headed?”

• [02:31] Soldier: “You keep fighting me and I'll gag you, too. You got no right…”

• [13:09] Soldier: “Get out of the way. We can't let Price get away with this.”

• [27:00] Soldier: “Watch out.”

• [35:14] Soldier: “I'm sure the examination was conducted fairly…”

• [35:47] Soldier: “I was an excellent student until I came to the Academy…”

Credits

This episode was produced by Lindsay Graham for Wondery, featuring contributions from Ellie Stanley (writer), desi Blaylock (producer), and a team of editors and sound designers who brought this powerful narrative to life.

Next Episode Preview

The series continues with the next episode, "Apache Warleaders Seek Revenge," which will cover the aftermath of Victorio’s demise, the challenges faced by Henry Flipper, and the tragic Wounded Knee Massacre.

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