The Port Chicago Mutiny

The Story of the Largest Mass Mutiny Trial in U.S. Naval History

By: Robert L. Allen

Narrated by: Jason Felisbret

During World War II, Port Chicago was a segregated naval munitions base on the outer shores of San Francisco Bay. Black seamen were required to load ammunition onto ships bound for the South Pacific under the watch of their White officers — an incredibly dangerous and physically challenging task. On July 17, 1944, an explosion rocked the base, killing 320 men — 202 of whom were Black ammunition loaders. In the ensuing weeks, White officers were given leave time and commended for heroic efforts, whereas 328 of the surviving Black enlistees were sent to load ammunition on another ship. When they refused, 50 men were singled out and charged — and convicted — of mutiny. It was the largest mutiny trial in US naval history.

First published in 1989, The Port Chicago Mutiny is a thorough and riveting work of civil rights literature, and a new preface and epilogue by the author emphasize the event’s relevance today.

©1989, 2006 Robert L. Allen (P)2021 Friends of Port Chicago National Memorial

Important history, but dry tales

Lots of important historical information, unfortunately told in a dry, documentary format. Worth a listen, and you should definitely go visit the Port Chicago site.