What motivated African-American men to serve in the U.S. military forces that fought against Native Americans, the Spanish, and the Filipinos?

The motivation for African-American men to serve in the U.S. military forces that fought against Native Americans, the Spanish, and the Filipinos can be attributed to several factors:

1. Patriotism and Duty: Despite the racial discrimination they faced, many African-American men felt a strong sense of patriotism and duty towards their country. They believed that by serving in the military, they were protecting their homeland and its ideals.

2. Economic Opportunities: Military service offered African-American men a steady income and benefits, which were often difficult to come by in civilian life due to racial discrimination. This was particularly true for those who had limited education or skills.

3. Social Mobility: The military was seen as a place where African-American men could rise through the ranks and achieve a level of status and respect that was often denied to them in civilian life.

4. Civil Rights: Many African-American men hoped that their service would help to challenge racial stereotypes and contribute to the fight for civil rights. They believed that by proving their bravery and loyalty on the battlefield, they could help to change attitudes and policies back home.

5. Personal Reasons: Like any other group, African-American men also had personal reasons for joining the military. These could include a desire for adventure, a family tradition of military service, or a wish to see the world.

It's important to note that the motivations would have varied greatly from individual to individual, and not all African-American men would have shared these motivations.