How many people did Robert Smalls save?
In fewer than four hours, Robert Smalls had done something unimaginable: In the midst of the Civil War, this black male slave had commandeered a heavily armed Confederate ship and delivered its 17 black passengers (nine men, five women and three children) from slavery to freedom.
What did Robert Smalls do with the USS planter?
As soon as the steamer was out of range of the last Confederate gun, Smalls hauled down the Confederate flag and hoisted a white one. Then he turned Planter over to the USS Onward of the Union blockading force.
What caused the Civil War in us?
The Civil War started because of uncompromising differences between the free and slave states over the power of the national government to prohibit slavery in the territories that had not yet become states. The event that triggered war came at Fort Sumter in Charleston Bay on April 12, 1861.
Is there a statue of Robert Smalls?
A statue of Robert Smalls is in the US National Museum of African American History and Culture. There is a proposal to create a statue of Robert Smalls to be installed at the South Carolina State House.
What was Robert Smalls known for?
Robert Smalls, (born April 5, 1839, Beaufort, South Carolina, U.S.—died February 23, 1915, Beaufort), African American slave who became a naval hero for the Union in the American Civil War and went on to serve as a congressman from South Carolina during Reconstruction.
What did African American soldiers face in addition to combat?
In addition to the perils of war faced by all Civil War soldiers, black soldiers faced additional problems stemming from racial prejudice. Racial discrimination was prevalent even in the North, and discriminatory practices permeated the U.S. military.
Where were the first shots of the Civil War fired and who won the battle?
The Battle of Fort Sumter (April 12–13, 1861) was the bombardment of Fort Sumter near Charleston, South Carolina by the South Carolina militia (the Confederate Army did not yet exist), and the return gunfire and subsequent surrender by the United States Army, that started the American Civil War.
Who fired the 1st shot to start the Civil War?
Captain Abner Doubleday
Why is Robert Smalls a hero?
Recognized for his bravery and skill, Smalls became one of the first African American pilots in the United States Navy. He was wounded April 7, 1863 while piloting the USS Keokuk during the ironclad attack on Fort Sumter. He also served as a captain for the US Navy during the siege of Charleston, 1863-1865.
What was unusual about Robert Smalls upbringing?
Robert Smalls was born on April 5, 1839 in Beaufort, South Carolina. His mother, Lydia Polite, was a forty-three-year-old slave owned by Henry McKee. Robert grew up working as a slave for the McKee family. He lived with his mother in a small cabin behind the large McKee house.