Despite a federal law banning black soldiers from serving in the U.S. Army, they nonetheless fought during the Civil War in both northern and southern regiments. John Stauffer spoke about their wartime role and responded to questions from members of the audience.

"The Process and Meaning of Emancipation during the War" was part of the U.S. Capitol Historical Society annual Spring Symposium "Emancipation During the Civil War," which was held in the Congressional Auditorium in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center.