2. Why was the Massachusetts 54th selected to spearhead the charge against the rebel fortifications?

Because Massachusetts 54th  was mostly made up of African American soldiers, which made the battle more weighty for them, allowing them to fight harder.

Explanation:

The Massachusetts 54th attack on the rebel fortifications took place in 1863 during the American Civil War. These fortifications were called Fort Wagner and were located in South Carolina as part of the Confederate army. In this case, it is correct to say that Fort Wagner was in favor of slavery and this was essential for the 54th Massachusetts to be chosen to fight it.

The Massachusetts 54th was the first regiment composed mainly of African Americans. These soldiers were fighting for their freedom and it was essential for them that the union win the war and that the Confederate fortress be torn down. This added weight to the battle and for that reason Massachusetts 54th was selected to face Fort Wagner. Although the attack was well structured and ambitious, the Massachusetts 54th was heavily countered.

b) race riots in several cities