Black Union soldiers were paid a lot less than White Union soldiers

Black Union troops were paid significantly less than their white counterparts, despite the Union's primary goals being the unification of the USA and the abolition of slavery. Black soldiers were paid $10 a month when they first enlisted in the Union Army in the early months of 1863. At least $13 was paid to white soldiers, with higher pay for officers. Blacks were further humiliated when their income was reduced to $7 and alone they had to pay a $3 clothing tax each month. As a result, the income of the best-paid black soldier was roughly equal to that of the lowest-paid white man.

Black troops objected to these circumstances by refusing to accept their low pay. Black Union troops protested being paid less than white soldiers for 18 months by refusing to accept their payments. Finally, pressure from abolitionist politicians and the valor displayed by black soldiers in battle convinced Congress to change the payment system. Black troops eventually received equal pay in September 1864, retroactive to the date of their enlistment. This meant that many people could finally send some money to their families back home.