The Amazing Story Of Robert Smalls Escape From Slavery To Union Hero

The life of Robert Smalls is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul. He was born a slave on April 5, 1839, in Beaufort, South Carolina. Yet, he rose above his circumstances to become a Union hero and a symbol of hope for all who yearn for freedom.

A Life of Servitude

Robert Smalls' early life was one of hardship and oppression. He was separated from his mother at a young age and forced to work as a slave on a plantation. He endured cruel treatment and was denied even the most basic rights.

Be Free or Die: The Amazing Story of Robert Smalls' Escape from Slavery to Union Hero

by Cate Lineberry

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21505 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	289 pages

FREE

Despite the adversity he faced, Robert Smalls was a bright and ambitious young man. He taught himself to read and write and dreamed of a life beyond slavery.

Escape to Freedom

In 1861, the outbreak of the American Civil War gave Robert Smalls his chance to escape. He was working as a deckhand on the Confederate warship CSS Planter when he hatched a daring plan.

On the night of May 12, 1862, Robert Smalls and seven other enslaved crew members seized control of the CSS Planter. They sailed the ship out of Charleston Harbor and surrendered it to the Union Navy at Fort Monroe, Virginia.

Robert Smalls' escape was a major blow to the Confederacy. He became a national hero and was celebrated in both the North and the South.

Union Service

After his escape, Robert Smalls joined the Union Army and served as a pilot and reconnaissance officer. He used his knowledge of the Southern coastlines to guide Union ships through treacherous waters and helped to capture Confederate positions.

In 1863, Robert Smalls was promoted to captain and given command of the steamship Keokuk. He led the ship in several successful battles and was wounded in action.

Robert Smalls' military career culminated with the capture of Fort Wagner in 1863. He was the first African American to command a United States Navy ship in battle.

Reconstruction and Legacy

After the Civil War, Robert Smalls returned to South Carolina and became involved in politics. He served in the South Carolina House of Representatives and the United States House of Representatives.

Robert Smalls was a strong advocate for the rights of African Americans. He fought for education, voting rights, and economic equality.

Robert Smalls died on February 23, 1915. He is buried in Beaufort National Cemetery. His legacy lives on as a symbol of hope and inspiration for all who struggle for freedom and equality.

The story of Robert Smalls is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can prevail. He rose above adversity to become a hero and a role model for generations to come.

Be Free or Die: The Amazing Story of Robert Smalls' Escape from Slavery to Union Hero

by Cate Lineberry

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21505 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	289 pages

FREE