Robert Smalls (April 5, 1839 – February 23, 1915) was an American politician who was born into slavery in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Apr 2, 2014 · Robert Smalls was an enslaved African American who escaped to freedom in a Confederate supply ship and eventually became a sea captain for the Union Navy. After the war, he became a...

Jan 11, 2025 · Robert Smalls was an American war hero and politician who, during the Civil War, became the first Black captain of a vessel in U.S. service. He served multiple terms as a congressman from South Carolina during Reconstruction.

From daring Civil War hero to Reconstruction-era political pioneer, the life of former slave Robert Smalls was as amazing as it was significant. Despite systemic racism, Walter Morris and the "Triple Nickles" forced their way into parachute training and …

Robert Smalls (1839-1915) Brief Biography 1 by Myisha Eatmon Robert Smalls was born into slavery on April 5, 1839, in Beaufort, South Carolina, to Lydia Polite, an enslaved woman, and possibly John McKee, her enslaver. 2 The McKee family held Smalls and his mother in bondage.

Robert Smalls was born in 1839, enslaved by a local planter in Beaufort, South Carolina. By the time he was 23 years old, Smalls had won freedom for himself and his family, and was a famous war hero. He became a prominent leader in the community during the Reconstruction era, including service in both the state and national legislature.

Robert Smalls made a daring sea escape during the Civil War as a slave and went on to serve five terms in Congress as a Representative from South Carolina.

Robert Smalls did something unimaginable: In the midst of the Civil War, this black male slave commandeered a Confederate ship and delivered its 16 black men, women and children passengers from slavery to freedom. From slave to sailor to Congressman, read on for more about this extraordinary person.

Dec 4, 2018 · Enslaved from birth in 1839, Robert Smalls was a sailor who self-liberated and changed the course of history during the Civil War. Later, he was elected to the House of Representatives, becoming one of the first Black members of Congress.

Robert Smalls (April 5, 1839 – February 23, 1915) was an American politician, publisher, businessman, and Maritime pilot. Born into slavery in Beaufort, South Carolina. He freed himself, his friends, and their families during the American Civil War.