A former slave who escaped to freedom by commandeering a Confederate ship, becoming a Union hero and later a politician, known for his bravery and pioneering achievements in the Civil War and Reconstruction era.
Robert Smalls, a former slave, is famously known for commandeering a Confederate transport ship in Charleston Harbor and sailing it to freedom, convincing President Abraham Lincoln to accept African American soldiers into the Union Army. His daring escape not only freed himself, his crew, and their families but also paved the way for the acceptance of African American soldiers in the Union Army.
Smalls was born on April 5, 1839, to Lydia Polite, an enslaved woman, in Beaufort, South Carolina. He grew up in a cabin behind Henry McKee's house, where his mother worked as a servant. Smalls' mother wanted him to understand the hardships of enslaved field workers, so she arranged for him to work in the fields and witness the brutal whippings, which would later shape his determination to fight for freedom.
In 1862, Smalls, then 23, was hired out as a laborer in Charleston. He worked on the Confederate transport ship, CSS Planter, which was used to transport guns and ammunition to Confederate fortifications. On May 13, 1862, Smalls and a group of eight enslaved men hatched a plan to escape. They commandeered the ship, navigating it past Confederate fortifications and reaching the Union blockade in the harbor. Smalls surrendered the ship to the Union Navy, earning him freedom and fame.
After the Civil War, Smalls returned to Beaufort and became a politician, winning election to the South Carolina Legislature and the U.S. House of Representatives during the Reconstruction era. He authored state legislation providing for South Carolina to have the first free and compulsory public school system in the United States. Smalls was a founder of the Republican Party of South Carolina and the last member of that party to represent South Carolina's 5th congressional district until 2010.
Smalls believed in the importance of education and equality. He fought tirelessly for the rights of African Americans, advocating for their inclusion in the political process and equal access to education. His legacy as a pioneer in the fight for civil rights continues to inspire and motivate generations.
Robert Smalls' bravery and determination paved the way for the acceptance of African American soldiers in the Union Army, played a crucial role in the abolition of slavery, and inspired generations to fight for civil rights. His legacy continues to shape American history, reminding us of the power of courage and perseverance in the face of adversity.
"I have been educated in the school of suffering, and I know what it is to be a slave."
Robert Smalls' remarkable story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, courage, determination, and the fight for freedom can lead to a brighter future.
Born in 1809
Led the United States through its Civil War and ultimately abolished slavery, leaving a lasting legacy in American history.
Born in 1822
Led the Union Army to victory in the Civil War and later became President, known for issuing the Emancipation Proclamation and strengthening federal authority.
Born in 1820
A renowned Union general during the American Civil War, he's infamous for his scorched earth tactics and march through the Confederacy, leaving destruction in his wake.
Born in 1808
The President of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War, leading the secessionist movement and fighting to preserve slavery. He's infamous for his role in the Civil War and its aftermath.
Born in 1807
Led the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War, surrendering to Union forces at Appomattox, marking the war's effective end.
Born in 1800
Abolitionist who led the raid on Harpers Ferry, a pivotal event that helped spark the American Civil War, fighting to end slavery through radical action.
Born in 1792
Radical Republican leader who fought for African American rights and reconstruction after the Civil War, known for his fierce abolitionist stance and efforts to impeach President Andrew Johnson.
