Army Sgt. William Carney became the first African American to receive the Medal of Honor in 1900

May 23

On May 23, 1900, Army Sgt. William Carney became the first African American to receive the Medal of Honor. 

Army Sgt. William Carney earned the Medal of Honor for his efforts to protect the American flag during the Civil War.

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Sources

A&E Television Networks. (n.d.-b). William Carney becomes first black American awarded The medal of honor. History.com. https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/william-carney-first-black-american-medal-of-honor