Final answer:
African-Americans accounted for more than 20% of U.S. combat deaths early in the Vietnam War, despite being only 12% of the population. The military's racial composition was disproportionate, leading to reforms such as the draft lottery system in 1969.
Step-by-step explanation:
The percentage of African-Americans in the US Army during the Vietnam War was disproportionately higher than their percentage of the population. While African-Americans made up 12% of the population, they accounted for more than 20% of U.S. combat deaths early in the Vietnam War.
The Department of Defense took steps to address this imbalance when it instituted the draft lottery system in 1969. Despite the ongoing challenges of integration and equality within the military forces, African-American soldiers formed organizations such as the Minority Servicemen's Association to protect themselves and advocate for their rights.
Through history, from serving in segregated units during the Civil War and World War I, to fighting in an integrated force in Vietnam, African-American soldiers have played a crucial role in U.S. military history.