Born enslaved in Beaufort, South Carolina, Robert Smalls became a symbol of justice and equality through his courageous actions and lifelong public service. During the Civil War, he commandeered the Confederate ship Planter, sailing himself, his family, and crew to freedom. His daring escape helped persuade President Lincoln to accept African American soldiers into the Union Army, advancing the cause of justice for all.
After the war, Smalls played a pivotal role in Reconstruction, serving in the South Carolina House and Senate, as well as five terms in the U.S. Congress. He authored legislation establishing South Carolina’s first free and compulsory public school system, dramatically expanding educational opportunities for children. As a founder of the Republican Party of South Carolina, Smalls remained a steadfast advocate for equal rights.
He famously declared, “My race needs no special defense, for the past history of them in this country proves them to be equal of any people anywhere. All they need is an equal chance in the battle of life.” His legacy continues to inspire as a courageous leader dedicated to justice, education, and progress.
Presented through a partnership between the South Carolina Department of Education and South Carolina ETV.
View the series on KnowItAll.org here.
The SC African American History Calendar for 2026 is now available here and for downloading here.