This piece has two interesting aspects. The first is the central position of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw at the moment that he is mortally shot and about to fall into Fort Wagner. Many of the depictions now, and then, share the idea of focusing on Shaw. He was the spokesman and figurehead of the Massachusetts 54^th. He was also white, which would have made it easier in the late part of the 19^th, and early part of the 20^th, to depict the regiment. By using him, they could depict black troops without too much criticism. Savage says something similar with “his name could summon up the historical presence of his black comrades in battle” in reference to the Shaw memorial. Shaw is actually a good choice for figurehead, since he appears to have been an honorable man. This was first shown by decision to lead the black regiment in the first place. Then he was willing to be in the front of the line at the attack on Fort Wagner, essentially insuring his own death due to the barrage of bullets and cannon fire that was raining down.

The second aspect is the color-sergeant carrying the flag right alongside Shaw at the top of the Fort. This has been another big part of various portrayals; the use of the American flag as a centerpiece. In the picture, it’s also certain that this man is going to be killed, but he is still carrying the flag high and proud. The significance of the flag seems to be that these men were Americans in addition to being black. This was something that was hard to accept for much of the public in the mid and late 19^th century. These were Americans fighting and dying. In real life, one f the black troops, William H. Carney, despite numerous wounds, grabbed the flag before it fell and planted it then flattened himself for protection for half an hour. He then was able to carry it back to safety. 37 years later he received the Congressional Metal of Honor.

[Art] [Tour] [Browse]