Who was the first African American awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for acts of bravery at Fort Wagner?

• A. William Carney
• B. Phillip Bazaar
• C. John James Audubon
• D. Henry David Thoreau

Answer: (A)

This question tests knowledge of Medal of Honor recipients and the role of African American soldiers in the Civil War, specifically at Fort Wagner. William Carney served with the 54th Massachusetts Infantry and demonstrated remarkable courage during the assault, notably by seizing and shielding the American flag under heavy fire and continuing to advance despite being wounded. His steadfast actions saved the flag and embodied the bravery recognized by the Medal of Honor, making him the first African American to receive the award for actions at Fort Wagner. The other names do not match this event: they are not the African American soldier associated with Fort Wagner, nor are they connected to this battle in a way that would earn the Medal of Honor for those actions.