Race War

Black American GIs in Bristol and Gloucestershire During World War I
Neil A. Wynn

America's entry into World War II highlighted the issue of race relations and the contradictions between America's declared position as a defender of 'freedom'
and 'democracy', and what was actually practised.

Prior to the D-Day landings of June 1944, there were almost 1.6 million American forces personnel in various parts of the UK, with some of the largest numbers in
Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire.

Pubs in Bristol became 'segregated' with some designated for white GIs only and others, generally the poorer ones, black US servicemen. As early as 1942, arrangements were made to seat the 'races' separately in cinemas in Yeovil and Chard. Racial lines were even imposed on fish and chip shops, some having 'black
Wednesdays' and 'white Thursdays'. Find out about the unrest that happened in the South West when a segregated army made camp in the area.

Published by Bristol Radical History Group