Parade of African American Regimental Band in France, c. 1917-1919

Parade of African American Regimental Band in France, c. 1917-1919

In France, James Reese Europe’s 369th Infantry Regimental band was elevated as celebrities, due in part to their introduction of jazz and ragtime music to the country through public concerts and special performances. The French people were mesmerized by the sounds coming from the musicians’ instruments. In their eyes, African American soldiers were part of the Allied forces that came to liberate their country from the German assault. The sense of dignity and pride inspired by these experiences would be a turning point in the transformation of African American men upon their return to America.

"Parade of African American Regimental Band in France," Box MSS1218. Robert Langmuir African American Photograph Collection, Stuart A. Rose Manuscript Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University.