![]() Prejudice also affected how many Americans perceived Native American, Latino, and Asian enemies, as well as the military tactics employed and the treatment of American citizens who looked like the “enemy.” Compared to European enemies, non‐Caucasians were dehumanized and often subjected to harsher tactics. The assertiveness of soldiers of color challenged the self‐image and position of whites, fueling harassment and violence. Most often serving under white officers, individuals of color, even when commissioned, were frequently prevented from commanding white troops. They experienced harassment by soldiers and civilians poor living conditions prejudicial evaluations of their skill, bravery, and contribution marginalization at ceremonies and lack of access to command. Minorities often were segregated or performed lower‐status roles within the military sometimes they received less pay. Laws frequently limited participation of non‐Caucasians, or mandated segregation and people of color entered or exited the military differently from Caucasians. ![]() Political and military exigencies resolved this contest. Many non‐Caucasians demanded inclusion and resisted inequality (or opportunistically asserted their self‐interest), while many Caucasians demanded exclusion, white control, and symbolic supremacy. The persistence of castelike approaches, and the conflicts generated, reflected both the power of racism and the important function that military service (or exclusion) played in the development of American society. ![]() People of color fought for equality and inclusion but usually experienced their opposites. The more inclusive military service was, however, the more it destabilized racial hierarchy and exacerbated racial tensions. ![]() Racial status defined how individuals of color were commanded, mobilized, and treated discrimination has thereby jeopardized military efficiency and claims of “equal” sacrifice. Race relations have helped shape, and in turn have been shaped by, the conduct of American wars and the dominant pattern of American military race relations was traditionally castelike. ![]()
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