Robert Gould Shaw

Robert Gould Shaw (October 10, 1837 – July 18, 1863), was the white colonel in command of the all-black 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, which entered the American Civil War in 1863.

Related Topics:
October 10 - 1837 - July 18 - 1863 - Colonel - Black - 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry - American Civil War

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, to a prominent abolitionist family, Shaw was a religious liberal and a Unitarian. He served as a captain in the 2nd Massachusetts until he was recruited by Governor John Andrew to raise and command the first regiment of black troops of the Union. Although he was initially unenthusiastic about his assignment, the dedication of his men deeply impressed him and he grew to respect them as fine soldiers. Upon learning that black soldiers would receive less pay than white ones, he inspired his unit to boycott this inequality until it was rectified.

Related Topics:
Boston, Massachusetts - Abolitionist - Religious liberal - Unitarian - Captain - John Andrew - Union

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Shaw was in charge of the 54th when they looted and then burned the city of Darien, Georgia on June 11, 1863. The destruction of the undefended city of little strategic importance had been ordered by Colonel James Montgomery.

Related Topics:
Darien, Georgia - June 11 - 1863

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The 54th was sent to Charleston, South Carolina, to take part in the operations against the Confederates stationed there. On July 18, 1863, along with two brigades of white troops, the 54th assaulted Confederate Battery Wagner. Shaw led his unit into battle and was killed during the assault while he stood up and yelled, "Onward, Fifty-Fourth!". When the Confederate soldiers buried the dead, they stripped his body and buried him with his men, intending it as an insult. However, Shaw's father proclaimed that he was proud that his son was buried in that manner and that Robert would have approved.

Related Topics:
Charleston, South Carolina - July 18 - 1863 - Battery Wagner

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Robert Shaw is well-known for the over 200 letters he wrote to his family and friends during the Civil War. They are currently located at the Houghton Library at Harvard University. Some may also be found in the Blue-Eyed Child of Fortune, which includes most of his letters and a brief biography of Shaw.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~