The Colored Cadet at West Point by Henry Ossian Flipper is a captivating and thought-provoking memoir that delves into the struggles and triumphs of the first African American to graduate from the prestigious United States Military Academy. Flipper's narrative is a powerful account of the racism and discrimination he faced during his time at West Point, as well as the determination and resilience that ultimately led to his success.
Through his detailed descriptions of the challenges he encountered, Flipper sheds light on the pervasive racism that permeated the military institution during the late 19th century. His story serves as a reminder of the obstacles that African Americans have had to overcome in order to achieve equality and recognition in a predominantly white society.
Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, Flipper's perseverance and dedication to his education and career are truly inspiring. His account of the racism he endured at West Point, as well as his eventual vindication and success as an officer in the U.S. Army, is a testament to the strength of his character and his unwavering commitment to achieving his goals.
Overall, The Colored Cadet at West Point is a poignant and important memoir that highlights the struggles and triumphs of one man's journey to break down barriers and achieve success in the face of adversity. Flipper's story is a compelling reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and justice in America, and serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Book Description:
Henry Ossian Flipper--born into slavery in Thomasville, Georgia on March 21, 1856--did not learn to read and write until just before the end of the Civil War. Once the war had ended, Flipper attended several schools showing a great aptitude for knowledge. During his freshman year at Atlanta University he applied for admittance to the United States National Military Academy at West Point. He was appointed to the academy in 1873 along with a fellow African American, John W. Williams. Cadet Williams was later dismissed for academic deficiencies.Flipper and Williams were not the first African Americans to attend West Point, however. Two others came before them: James Webster Smith in July of 1870, and Henry Alonzo Napier in 1871. Cadets Napier and Smith were eventually dismissed for academic deficiencies.
In 1876, Johnson Chestnut Whittaker another African American, was admitted to the academy. But one day he was discovered beaten, bound and unconscious in his room. An investigation was conducted by a lengthy courts martial; however, this proceeding--tainted by racism--determined that Whittaker’s injuries were "self-inflicted" and that he had tied himself up. Secretary of War, Robert Todd Lincoln, later declared the court martial invalid, but this did nothing to save Cadet Whittaker's career as he was preemptively dismissed from the academy because of academic deficiencies.
Henry Ossian Flipper graduated from West Point as a Second Lieutenant in June of 1877 earning his place in history as the first African American to do so. His first permanent duty assignment was to the famed 10th Calvalry Regiment. (Introduction by James K. White)
