What Doesn't Kill You, Makes You Stronger

Blacks in United States had the opportunity to gain advancement by submitting themselves to discrimination. The blacks could serve in the Union army and, essentially fight for their freedom. The question is, is it worth it to endure discrimination in order to get yourself higher? Or is it better to remain where you are and not tolerate the extra abuse?

I believe that, in the free blacks in United States, it would be better to withstand the discrimination in order to gain advancement. After fighting alongside the whites in the Civil War, many blacks were rewarded and treated better than they were before. In the case of Silas Chandler, it was definitely worth it. Silas was a slave to a white man who served in the Confederate Army. Silas also served in the army with him, and was discriminated for being a black soldier and technically not being free. After his service, he was rewarded with freedom and a new church near his property from his old master. This was worth the discrimination in the end and allowed Silas to gain freedom and a church for him and his community.

The Chandler tintype showing Silas (left) and his master (right)