#21: The Daring Escape of Robert Smalls
In a stunning display of bravery, Robert Smalls, once a slave, commandeered a Confederate ship disguised as its captain. He liberated himself and others, steering them to freedom and influencing the Civil War’s course.
Robert Smalls’ audacious act secured his freedom and played a pivotal role in President Lincoln’s decision to recruit African American soldiers into the Union Army. Post-war, Smalls further distinguished himself as a representative for South Carolina.