All Executive Orders
Executive Order 9981Superseded

Desegregation of the Armed Forces

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: April 2026
Harry S. Truman
July 26, 1948
13 FR 4313

Summary

Abolished racial discrimination in the United States Armed Forces, mandating equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services without regard to race, color, religion, or national origin. A landmark step in the civil rights movement.

Topics

civil rightsmilitarydesegregationracial equality

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