"Strike the Blow for Freedom" uses a myriad of resources to present the facts of the formation of the 6th United States Colored Infantry Regiment. This study continues with the recruitment, training, battles and finally the mustering out of the 6th. The 6th shared some of the same influences that shaped the formation of many military units of that time. However, being a Colored unit, it had unique obstacles in its formation, acceptance and finally its assignments. The economic, political and social environments are revealed in such away that a better understanding of the times is possible. The main text of the book flows well and the numerous statistical tables and graphs adds tremendously to the understanding of the make up of the 6th. The supporting notes and bibliography add interest and a direction to related material. The author was able to present the facts with out editorializing. "Strike the Blow for Freedom" has refreshed my interest in the United States civil war and has expanded my understanding of the Colored role in shaping United States military history.