Ep 236: A Stolen Ship to Freedom - Robert Smalls

On this episode, we celebrate Black History Month by sharing the remarkable story of Robert Smalls, an enslaved man who took matters into his own hands during the Civil War. Smalls was born in Beaufort, South Carolina, in 1839 to an enslaved mother. Despite the oppressive circumstances, he demonstrated remarkable intelligence and resourcefulness from a young age.

As a young man, Smalls worked various jobs, often earning a meager dollar a week while the majority of his earnings went to his enslaver. His ultimate goal was to buy his family's freedom, a daunting task given the $800 price tag (equivalent to about $30,000 today). However, with the Civil War raging, Smalls realized he had to act quickly to save himself and his loved ones.

On May 12, 1862, while commanding the CSS Planter, Smalls and a group of enslaved crew members devised a daring escape. With the Confederate soldiers off the ship, they seized the opportunity, disguising themselves and sailing past Fort Sumter, where they would be met by Union forces. This audacious act not only secured their freedom but also provided crucial intelligence to the Union Army.

Once safely in the hands of the Union, Smalls became a pivotal figure, using his knowledge of Confederate operations to aid the Union cause. He participated in numerous battles and was eventually elected to Congress, where he fought for civil rights and the rights of formerly enslaved people.

Smalls' story is one of courage, resilience, and determination. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the sacrifices made in the fight for freedom and equality. Tune in to this week's episode to hear more about Robert Smalls and his incredible journey from slavery to statesman. It's a tale that encapsulates the spirit of perseverance and the importance of standing up for what is right. Don't miss it!