Episode Summary: "Buffalo Soldiers | Suffering in Silence | Episode 4"

Introduction to West Point's Racial Integration

The fourth episode of American History Tellers delves deep into the harrowing experiences of the early Black cadets at the United States Military Academy at West Point during Reconstruction. Hosted by Lindsey Graham, the episode explores the formidable challenges faced by figures like James Webster Smith and Henry Ossian Flipper, highlighting the systemic racism and personal resilience that shaped their journeys.

Opening Conflict: A Glimpse into Adversity (00:00 - 04:19)

The episode opens with a narrative reenactment set in June 1870 at West Point, New York. Prospective cadet James Webster Smith and his roommate, Michael Howard, face overt hostility from a white candidate, Robert McCord. A tense encounter culminates in McCord assaulting Howard, showcasing the physical and psychological violence Black cadets endured. This scene sets the stage for the broader discussion on racism within the academy.

Interview with Lt. Col. Rory McGovern (05:46 - 43:07)

Lindsey Graham interviews Lt. Col. Rory McGovern, an associate professor at West Point and co-author of Race, Politics and Reconstruction. McGovern provides an in-depth analysis of the academy's struggles with integration during the Reconstruction era.

1. West Point Post-Civil War Climate (06:02 - 08:16)

   McGovern describes West Point in the aftermath of the Civil War as an institution grappling with its legacy. The academy faced criticism for being a "nursery of treason" due to the number of graduates who sided with the Confederacy. Additionally, West Point was accused of serving as a finishing school for the elite, sidelining competent volunteer officers who lacked formal training.

2. Admission of the First Black Cadets (08:29 - 14:54)

   The nomination process for cadets was heavily influenced by Congressional supporters. In May 1870, James Webster Smith and Michael Howard became the first Black cadets to be nominated. McGovern discusses the exceptionally challenging entrance and academic exams, noting a spike in failure rates that fueled suspicions of discriminatory practices. Despite the rigors, Smith succeeded, while Howard did not, leading to Howard's premature departure.

3. Life at West Point: Isolation and Abuse (18:05 - 25:21)

   McGovern outlines the systemic isolation Black cadets faced. Smith and Howard were segregated in living quarters, with limited social integration. Smith's memoir reveals pervasive isolation and targeted harassment, including physical assaults and attempts to sabotage his academic progress. The "code of silencing" further marginalized them, preventing meaningful peer support.

4. Institutional Response and Persecution of Smith (25:21 - 29:37)

   West Point's administration, led by Commandant Emory Upton—a committed abolitionist—implemented policies that effectively turned against Black cadets. Reports of misconduct by Smith were dismissed, leading to false accusations and court-martials aimed at ousting him. Despite his perseverance, Smith was dismissed after failing an academic exam in his fourth year and tragically died of tuberculosis two years later.

   “Without James Webster Smith's staying power, without his endurance, I cannot properly express how terrible that first year was for him.”
   — Lt. Col. Rory McGovern (29:37)

5. Legacy of Henry Ossian Flipper and Subsequent Cadets (32:37 - 38:40)

   Henry Ossian Flipper became the first Black graduate in 1877, followed by John Hanks Alexander in 1887 and Charles Young in 1889. Charles Young's illustrious career broke numerous racial barriers, but the progress was slow. The episode highlights the significant gap until Benjamin O. Davis Jr.'s graduation in 1936, underscoring the persistence of racial barriers well into the 20th century.

   “Smith really is the undersung hero in the story. Flipper certainly is a hero in the story as well. Smith is the one that we don't fully appreciate, and he's the one that made the graduation of black cadets like Henry Oflipper possible.”
   — Lt. Col. Rory McGovern (29:37)

6. Modern Recognition and Remembrance (38:40 - 43:07)

   Today, West Point honors these early Black cadets through annual dinners and educational courses that highlight their contributions and struggles. The episode notes the posthumous honors bestowed upon Flipper, including an honorable discharge and a pardon in 1999, reflecting a long-overdue recognition of his resilience and service.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Resilience

The episode concludes by emphasizing the critical role of pioneers like James Webster Smith and Henry Ossian Flipper in paving the way for future generations of Black officers. Their stories are a testament to enduring courage in the face of institutionalized racism and personal adversity.

Production Credits

The episode was hosted by Lindsey Graham, with research and insights provided by Lt. Col. Rory McGovern. Production was handled by a team led by Polly Stryker and Aleda Rozanski, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging exploration of this pivotal chapter in American military history.

Key Takeaways

• Systemic Racism at West Point: Early Black cadets faced severe discrimination, isolation, and violence, highlighting the broader societal challenges of Reconstruction-era America.

• James Webster Smith's Endurance: As the first Black cadet, Smith's resilience underpins the eventual graduation of Henry Ossian Flipper and others, despite tragic personal outcomes.

• Henry Ossian Flipper's Legacy: Flipper's successful graduation and subsequent recognition symbolize the slow but vital progress towards integration in military institutions.

• Long-Term Impact: The experiences of these early cadets set the foundation for future generations, illustrating the enduring struggle for equality and recognition within the U.S. military.

Notable Quotes

“Without James Webster Smith's staying power, without his endurance, I cannot properly express how terrible that first year was for him.”
— Lt. Col. Rory McGovern (29:37)

“Smith really is the undersung hero in the story. Flipper certainly is a hero in the story as well. Smith is the one that we don't fully appreciate, and he's the one that made the graduation of black cadets like Henry Oflipper possible.”
— Lt. Col. Rory McGovern (29:37)

“Jefferson Davis said the Confederacy was founded on the principle that blacks were incapable of self-government.”
— Not directly quoted, but inferred as part of the discussion on racial ideologies (contextual)

Final Thoughts

This episode sheds light on a lesser-known but profoundly impactful aspect of American military history. Through meticulous storytelling and expert analysis, American History Tellers honors the bravery and perseverance of the first Black cadets at West Point, ensuring their stories continue to inspire and educate future generations.