Explain to students that one of the key factors in granting African American men the right to vote was their important military service during the Civil War, where it is estimated that 180,000 Black soldiers fought for the Union. The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, specifically included a provision that allowed African Americans to serve in the Union Army and Navy. The Military Service Authorization declared that African American men would be accepted into military service for the Union forces. This authorization was a significant departure from previous federal policies that had excluded African Americans from military service.

Then, explain to students that they will be examining a political cartoon that appeared in Harper’s Weekly during Reconstruction which depicts an African American soldier. Have students complete the Political Cartoon Analysis handout. As a whole class discuss findings in relation to the right to vote afforded or not afforded to soldiers.