Episode 233 – The Defiant Legacy of David Fagen**
Welcome back to *Trey’s Table*, the podcast where we explore the rich tapestry of African American history, politics, and culture. In **Episode 233**, we dive into the incredible and often overlooked story of **David Fagen**, the Black American soldier who defected during the Philippine-American War and became a captain in the Philippine revolutionary army.
### Who Was David Fagen?
David Fagen was born in Tampa, Florida, around 1875. Like many African Americans of his time, he enlisted in the U.S. Army seeking opportunity and stability. He served in the **24th Infantry Regiment**, an all-Black unit, during the Spanish-American War. But when his regiment was sent to the Philippines to fight in the Philippine-American War, Fagen’s story took a dramatic turn.
The Philippine-American War (1899–1902) was a brutal conflict between the United States and Filipino revolutionaries fighting for independence. For Black soldiers like Fagen, this war posed a moral dilemma. They were fighting for a country that denied them basic rights at home, while also being asked to suppress another people of color fighting for their freedom. This tension would ultimately shape Fagen’s decision to defect.
### The Defection That Shook the U.S. Army
In November 1899, David Fagen made history by deserting the U.S. Army and joining the Filipino revolutionary forces, known as the *Katipunan*. His defection wasn’t just an act of desertion—it was an act of defiance. Fagen quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a captain in the revolutionary army and leading guerrilla attacks against U.S. forces.
Fagen’s decision to defect was likely influenced by the racism he experienced in the U.S. military and a sense of solidarity with the Filipino people. His story is a powerful reminder of the global connections between struggles for freedom and equality.
### A Legacy of Resistance
David Fagen’s story doesn’t have a clear ending. In 1901, reports claimed he was killed, and his head was delivered to U.S. forces as proof. However, some historians believe Fagen may have faked his death to escape the war and start a new life. Regardless of how his story ended, Fagen’s legacy lives on as a symbol of resistance and solidarity.
### Why David Fagen’s Story Matters Today
David Fagen’s story challenges us to think critically about the intersections of race, identity, and power. It reminds us that history is full of unsung heroes—people whose actions defy the status quo and inspire us to think differently about the world.
In this episode, we explore Fagen’s life, his decision to defect, and the broader implications of his story. It’s a tale of courage, defiance, and the enduring fight for justice.
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**Listen to Episode 233 Now**
If you haven’t already, tune in to **Episode 233** of *Trey’s Table* to hear the full story of David Fagen. You can find the episode on all major podcasts platforms including Spotify and iTunes.
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**Resources and Further Reading**
Want to learn more about David Fagen and the Philippine-American War? Check out these resources:
- *The Counterrevolution of 1776* by Gerald Horne
- *Race to Revolution* by Gerald Horne
- *The Philippine-American War: A Captivating Guide to the Philippine Insurrection* by Captivating History
https://youtu.be/teRFAMCTCZI?s...
https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/
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Thank you for joining me at *Trey’s Table*. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe to the podcast. Until next time, keep exploring, keep learning, and keep making history.
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