Blacks a Key to War of 1812-- Part 1: Blacks in the War

From the June 20, 2012, Afro by Zemtha Prince.

For many blacks it was a "first major pathway to self-determination and freedom." Thousands played a role.

Their options: Fight for the United States, run away snd seek freedom with the Indians or join the British.

Many chose the British who promised free emigration to British colonies in Canada and West Indies in exchage for their service.

When the British fleet entered the Chesapeake Bay in March 1813, hundreds of slaves and their families made their way to the fleet and claimed their freedom. Many joined the Colonial Marines, an all-black fighting unit which had a hand in the burning of Washington, D.C. and the Battle of Baltimore.

And yet, some elected to fight with the Americans, despite slavery. Some 60% of the defenders of Fort McHenry at Baltimore were immigrants and one in five was black. The huge flag that Francis Scott Key wrote about was partially sewn by blacks.

More to Come. --Brock-Perry