Final answer:
African American soldiers served in the military during segregation to prove their loyalty and citizenship, with the hope that their service would contribute to social acceptance and civil rights post-war.
Step-by-step explanation:
African American soldiers faced discrimination and segregation in the armed forces during the early 20th century. Despite these horrendous conditions, they remained dedicated to serving for several reasons. One prominent reason was the opportunity to prove their loyalty and citizenship through service, with the hope that it would lead to broader social acceptance and civil rights after the war. Many African American soldiers believed that by demonstrating bravery and loyalty on the battlefield, they could contest racial stereotypes and promote equality.
Furthermore, service offered a sense of freedom and acceptance overseas, particularly in places like France where they experienced less discrimination. For many, it was also about fighting for the liberation and end of slavery, which were passions strongly felt among those who had themselves been enslaved or who descended from enslaved people. Through military service, African Americans not only contributed to the country's war efforts but also sought to reshape societal attitudes in the US regarding race and civil rights.
The military experiences of African Americans also laid the groundwork for the civil rights movement, as veterans who returned from service were less willing to tolerate the status quo of racism and inequality at home.