Without Concealment, Without Compromise: The Courageous Lives of Black Civil War Surgeons

This book is the first-ever comprehensive exploration of the lives and service of Black Civil War surgeons, who fought racism and discrimination to attend medical school and serve with the U.S. military. Their efforts and actions influenced societal change and forged new pathways for African Americans.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Southern Illinois University Press

Advancing the cause of racial equality while saving lives is a remarkable achievement that requires immense dedication and resilience. During the Union Civil War, a mere fourteen Black men served as surgeons among the twelve thousand Union Civil War surgeons. This book, a groundbreaking exploration, delves into the lives and service of these remarkable individuals, shedding light on their unique experiences that have been hidden for over 150 years. Through meticulous research by Jill L. Newmarks, these stories are brought to life, illuminating the unwavering commitment and patriotism of these proud, African American men who fought against racism and discrimination to pursue their dreams of attending medical school and serving with the U.S. military.

Their tireless efforts and actions not only influenced societal change but also paved the way for a more inclusive future for African Americans. The individual biographies featured in this book offer a glimpse into the lives of remarkable individuals such as Alexander T. Augusta, who courageously challenged discriminatory laws; William P. Powell Jr., who tirelessly pursued a military pension for twenty-five years; Anderson R. Abbott, a friend of Elizabeth Keckley; John van Surly DeGrasse, the sole Black surgeon to serve on the battlefield; John H. Rapier Jr., an international traveler; Richard H. Greene, the only Black surgeon known to have served in the Navy; Willis R. Revels, a preacher; Benjamin A. Boseman, a politician and postmaster; and Charles B. Purvis, a teacher at Howard University.

While information was limited for five other men who also broke educational barriers by attending medical schools in the United States, their stories are equally inspiring. Cortlandt Van Rensselaer Creed, William B. Ellis, Alpheus W. Tucker, Joseph Dennis Harris, and Charles H. Taylor each overcame significant obstacles to pursue their medical education and contribute to the cause of racial equality.

Newmark presents a comprehensive account of the surgeons' early lives, influences, education, Civil War service, and post-war experiences. The book overlaps in certain aspects, reflecting the interconnected lives of these remarkable men. Each surgeon, through his service as a surgeon during the war and his lifelong activism for freedom, justice, and equality, became a catalyst of change and a symbol of an emancipated future.

The contributions of these Black Civil War surgeons are a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. Their stories inspire us to continue striving for a more inclusive and equitable society, where every individual has the opportunity to pursue their dreams and contribute to the betterment of society.

Weight: 472g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780809339044