Buffalo Soldiers
This is an activity to discover who the Buffalo Soldiers were and to complete a research project. When you finish this part, preceed to the pathfinder on Buffalo Soldiers to find out more.
Who were the buffalo soldiers? It is not a name often used when we talk about the Wild, Wild West, but these soldiers were some of the bravest people in our history. Today you will find out who they are and why they are such an important part of our American West history.
Picture yourself on the wild planes of the west. The grasses are tall and the hot winds blow gently through your hair. You are a young child with your family living in the west. The sound of horses approaching is suddenly heard from beyond a large, grassy hill. As the small group gets closer you can see that all the riders in the group are wearing soldier’s uniforms. The group stops nearby at the stream just below you where the horses are allowed to drink. You walk down the hill and you can see some of the soldiers from behind. Your parents had told you these soldiers were traveling through the area. They are the famous Buffalo Soldiers. You quickly hide behind a small tree between you and the group by the stream.
Now you have to finish the picture of the story. Visit the site below to find out exactly who these soldiers are.
http://www.buffalosoldiers.com/
You should fill in this chart as you read through the site:
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Who were the Buffalo soldiers? |
The buffalo soldiers were ________________ _______________, comprised of ________, _____________, and __________________. |
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List the military campaigns they have been involved with in the past. |
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Who gave these soldiers their name? |
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Which national park has a great deal of history with the Buffalo Soldier? |
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Why do you think so few people know a lot about the Buffalo Soldier?
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When you have completed this part, continue on to the pathfinder