Torchbearers of Democracy

“In a manner that no previous author has achieved, Chad Williams vividly captures the turbulent times and sentiments of African Americans in general and black soldiers in particular during the World War I era. His scholarship is outstanding.”
-John Morrow, Jr., Franklin Professor of History, University of Georgia

The 380,000 African American soldiers who served in World War I left a significant impact on American history. In Torchbearers of Democracy, Chad Williams tells their story, and with it reveals the broader struggles of African Americans for true democracy during the World War I era. A book report for students on this work would highlight the soldiers’ bravery and the systemic challenges they faced both during and after the war. Such a book report would also delve into how Williams’ narrative sheds light on the broader fight for civil rights and equality in America.

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