The 1st Rhode Island Regiment, also known as Varnum's Regiment or the Black Regiment, was a regiment of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783). It was notable for being the first American military unit to consist mainly of non-white soldiers, many of whom were enslaved Black or Native American men serving to win their freedom.
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Definition
Timeline
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8 May 1775The 1st Rhode Island Regiment is raised.
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Feb 1778The Rhode Island Assembly decides to allow enslaved Black and Native American men to enlist in the Continental Army, in exchange for their freedom.
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14 May 1781The 1st Rhode Island Regiment is ambushed by a Loyalist militia at the Battle of Pine Bridge; Colonel Christopher Greene is killed along with a major and 8 Black soldiers.
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25 Dec 1783The 1st Rhode Island Regiment is disbanded at Saratoga, New York, after over eight years of service.
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Feb 1785The Rhode Island Assembly passes an act promising financial support to any African-American veteran of the Continental Army who needs it.
