Robert Gould Shaw

In his early years, Robert Gould Shaw lived within the privileges of a wealthy family. Then the U.S. Civil War began. And Robert joined the Union Army.

In the army, Robert took part in numerous battles. In one battle in 1862, Robert’s pocket watch deflected a bullet that could have seriously wounded him.

Then in 1863, the Governor of Massachusetts selected Robert to command the 54th Massachusetts Infantry, the first all-black Union Army regiment. Under his leadership, the 54th Massachusetts would play an important role in the Union Army’s assault on Fort Wagner in South Carolina.

In this battle, Robert’s leadership and bravery inspired many. As the regiment came under heavy fire, Robert moved to the front, yelling, “Forward 54th!” He led his men until he was shot and killed during the battle. He was buried with his men in a mass grave, as was the practice for black soldiers at the time.

Robert’s legacy has endured beyond his death, however. He is remembered as a hero, with his story immortalized in literature and film, including the 1989 film “Glory,” which tells the story of the 54th Massachusetts and its role in the Civil War.

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Sources: Lt. Robert G. Shaw, standing, facing front. Photograph. Retrieved from the Library of Congress, <www.loc.gov/item/2010647753/>. / “COL Robert Gould Shaw.” On Point, vol. 10, no. 1, 2004, pp. 15–15. JSTOR.