LaContribution

Louisiana's Contribution to the Union Louisiana's contributions to the Union armies were significant. Joseph R. West, a Union general, was born in New Orleans. Prior to the war, he lived in Pennsylvania and California. During the war, he served in both Louisiana and Arkansas. Louisiana also furnished 5,200 white troops to the Union armies, most from New Orleans and many of the immigrants. Black Louisianians fought for the Union in greater numbers. More than 24,000 blacks joined the Union army, the largest black contingent from any state. The 1st Regiment Louisiana Native Guards, organized in September 1862, was the first black regiment in the U.S. army. Louisiana's blacks distinguished themselves in several battles, particularly Port Hudson and Milliken's Bend. Seven Congressional Medals of Honor were awarded to white and black Louisianians who fought for the Union.