Video summary
The experience of African American soldiers in France is contrasted with the prejudices faced in their own military.
New social and military freedoms acquired from serving with French military units are explored and explained by an academic.
The US military’s refusal to accept and their actions to subsequently limit these changes are discussed.
This clip is from the series The World's War.
Teacher Notes
Students could build on their literacy skills by drafting a letter to the NAACP magazine The Crisis, in the person of Freddie Stowers relating his experiences of serving in the French army and the new freedoms he has experienced.
These films are suitable for teaching History at Key Stage 4 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and at 4th Level in Scotland.
La Force noire - West African troops in the French army. video
David Olusoga explores the racist theories behind the French-African regiment
Audio evidence from Empire Soldiers in World War One. video
We hear a rare audio recording of Mall Singh, an Indian soldier captured by the Germans.
Different cultural cooperation in World War One. video
David Olusoga explores the experiences of Indian soldiers in World War One.
Indian deserters caught up in a Wartime strategic mission. video
The incredible journey of Jemadar Mir Mast, the British-Indian soldier who risked everything to get home.
Multi-cultural Troops. video
David Olusoga explores diary evidence on the diversity of soldiers on the Western Front.
Overcoming racial stereotypes in World War One. video
Historian and film-maker, David Olusoga, explores how negative racial attitudes were challenged in France during World War One as new friendships were forged.
The Chinese Labour Corps in World War One. video
David Olusoga investigates the contribution of the least acknowledged group from the Empire - Chinese labourers.
The Indian Royal Flying Corps fighter Ace. video
David Olusoga explores the racial barrier-breaking service of an Indian fighter pilot in the Royal Flying Corps.
The Imperial scope of a European War. video
David Olusoga visits Africa to explore the global scope of the World War One.
