Private Gordon

Private Gordon, an enslaved man who escaped to became one of the most iconic figures of the Civil War. Photographs of his severely scarred back were published in 1863. Born into slavery in Louisiana, Gordon endured brutal treatment from his enslavers. In March 1863, he escaped a plantation, traveling ten days through treacherous terrain to reach Union lines in Baton Rouge.Once there, Gordon enlisted in the Union Army, joining the United States Colored Troops (USCT). Before his service, Union doctors photographed his back, which bore deep scars from severe whippings. These images, widely circulated in Harper’s Weekly, exposed the brutal realities of slavery to the public and strengthened abolitionist sentiment in the North.Gordon’s story represents the resilience of Black Americans who fought for freedom and contributed to the Union cause. His sacrifice remains a powerful testament to the horrors of slavery and the fight for justice.The Joy Trip Project celebrates the enduring legacy of Black American History. The Unhidden Minute is part of the Unhidden Podcast Project supported through a National Geographic Explorer Grant from the National Geographic Society, with the cooperation of the National Park Service. This series elevates the untold stories of Black American historical figures, events and cultural contributions.#unhiddenblackhistory #NationalParkService #yourparkstory #NationalGeographic #unhiddenminute This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit jamesedwardmills.substack.com/subscribe