Black Virginians in Blue: Black Union Soldiers and Sailors from Albemarle County, Virginia

The “Black Virginians in Blue” dataset documents information on Black men from Albemarle County, Virginia, who served in the Union military during the Civil War. The dataset contains a wide range of information, including date of birth, occupation, residence, date of enlistment, regiment, rank, and date and place of death. The data sheds light on Black soldiers’ lives, social networks, and military experiences, using local examples to speak to national themes. It demonstrates the dispersive impacts of slavery and the hardships of military service. But it also underscores African Americans’ determination to claim their freedom, serve their country, and demand justice and equality in the wake of war.