Criminal
Robert Smalls
Feb 7, 2025
Michael Boulware Moore, the great-great-grandson of Robert Smalls, shares the riveting history of his ancestor, who freed himself and his family from slavery by commandeering a Confederate ship in 1862. They discuss Smalls' daring escape and clever strategies amidst the Civil War chaos. Moore highlights the bravery of Smalls in commanding a U.S. naval vessel and his advocacy for African American rights. The conversation emphasizes the need to reclaim neglected historical narratives, celebrating Smalls' heroism and the struggle for justice.
35:39
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Quick takeaways
- Robert Smalls' escape from slavery by commandeering a Confederate ship highlights his strategic ingenuity and courage in challenging oppression.
- His post-war advocacy for public education and navigation of political challenges underscores his lasting commitment to civil rights and community empowerment.
Deep dives
The Early Life of Robert Smalls
Robert Smalls was born into slavery in 1839 in Beaufort, South Carolina, under incredibly difficult circumstances, with his mother, Lydia Polite, delivering him alone in a shack behind the family's house. Raised in the home of John McKee, Smalls experienced a somewhat unique upbringing, as he was able to remain with his mother longer than many enslaved children. This close maternal bond allowed him to receive love and nurturing, influencing his early awareness of the injustices surrounding him, particularly his inability to access education. Smalls’s rebellious spirit often led him to challenge the restrictions imposed on him, creating a profound longing for freedom that would shape his future actions.
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