Robert Smalls, professional bad-ass

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image showing Robert Smalls, professional bad-ass

rohangreen on September 6th, 2020 at 12:05 UTC »

Source and more information

His story is inspiring and is worth your time to read. He is a true hero, and his actions were selfless, playing a large role in the liberation of African-American slaves. His story has never been more relevant than it is now.

TL;DR

Born into slavery in 1839, Robert Smalls was determined to break free from slavery. In 1862, Smalls stole and assumed control of a Confederate military ship, rescuing some of his family members before setting off to rescue other slaves. He bypassed Confederate guard ships by learning the appropriate flag signals, soon escaping to freedom and liberating countless slaves in the process, all while a $4,000 bounty was placed on his head (worth over $124,000 in today’s money). He then embarked on a political career, serving as a military advisor to the Union until the end of the Civil War.

Smalls soon ran for a place in the House of Representatives. He won, serving 5 nonconsecutive terms between 1874 and 1886. He died at the age of 75 at his home in Beaufort, SC.

“My race needs no special defense for the past history of them and this country. It proves them to be equal of any people anywhere. All they need is an equal chance in the battle of life.” - Robert Smalls

PeaceBull on September 6th, 2020 at 12:33 UTC »

Buys a house

Doesn’t just buy a house, buys the house he was originally a slave at.

FountainPenandInk on September 6th, 2020 at 12:59 UTC »

Confederates: You’re killing me Smalls!