The Woman Who Secretly Became a Buffalo Soldier | Cathay Williams Hidden History Black History

Added: 2026-05-26

[00:00:00]Before women were allowed to serve in the US military, one black woman refused to wait for permission.

[00:00:06]Her name was Cathay Williams, the only documented woman to serve as a Buffalo Soldier.

[00:00:12]Born into slavery in Missouri around 1844, Cathay's life changed during the Civil War when Union troops occupied her plantation.

[00:00:21]Enslaved people were declared contraband of war and forced to work for the army.

[00:00:27]As a cook and laundress traveling with soldiers, Cathay witnessed something new: independence, steady pay, and freedom.

[00:00:35]In 1866, black men were allowed to enlist in segregated army units known as the Buffalo Soldiers. Women were banned.

[00:00:43]So, Cathay created her own opportunity.

[00:00:46]She cut her hair, disguised herself as a man, and enlisted under the name William Cathay in the 38th United States Infantry Regiment.

[00:00:55]For nearly 2 years, she marched, drilled, and served alongside male soldiers in the American West.

[00:01:01]But, harsh conditions and repeated illness led army doctors to discover her identity.

[00:01:07]In 1868, she was honorably discharged for medical disability.

[00:01:12]Cathay returned to civilian life facing poverty and declining health.

[00:01:17]When she later applied for a military pension, benefits granted to male veterans, her request was denied.

[00:01:24]Her story nearly disappeared from history.

[00:01:27]Today, Cathay Williams reminds us that black women have always fought for freedom, even when the nation refused to recognize them as soldiers.

[00:01:36]She didn't serve because she was allowed, she served because she refused to be excluded.

[00:01:41]Hidden history isn't forgotten by accident. It's forgotten by choice.