The term “Buffalo Soldiers” refers to the African American soldiers who served in the United States Army after the Civil War. The nickname was given to them by American Plains Indians who fought against the 10th Cavalry, one of the regiments that made up the Buffalo Soldiers. The Indians referred to the black cavalry troops as “curly hair,” which resembled a buffalo’s coat, and because of their fierce nature of fighting. The nickname soon became synonymous with all African-American regiments formed in 1866. The Buffalo Soldiers fought in America’s wars from 1866 through the Korean War, taking part in most of the military campaigns during the decades-long Indian Wars. They served at a variety of posts in the Southwest and Great Plains, protecting and supporting the nation’s westward expansion by building roads and other infrastructure, guarding the U.S. mail, and fighting against Native American tribes. Despite facing extreme racial prejudice from the Army establishment, the Buffalo Soldiers persevered to be a credit to their people and the nation.