Robert Smalls’ Escape (1862): The Journey from Enslaved Pilot to Congressman
Black History Through the Lens of Liberation
Robert Smalls’ Escape (1862): The Journey from Enslaved Pilot to Congressman
History is full of daring acts of defiance, but few rival the boldness of Robert Smalls. His escape from enslavement wasn’t just about personal freedom—it was a monumental act of strategy and bravery that changed the course of the American Civil War and inspired generations of liberation seekers. Smalls’ story isn’t just history; it’s a blueprint for turning knowledge into power, risk into opportunity, and oppression into freedom.
The Night of the Escape: Strategy Meets Courage
On the night of May 13, 1862, Robert Smalls, a 23-year-old enslaved man working as a pilot for the Confederate army, made a life-altering decision. Under the cover of darkness, he and his crew hijacked the Confederate steamship Planter from the Charleston harbor.
Smalls, dressed in the captain’s uniform, navigated the ship past multiple Confederate checkpoints, using secret signals to avoid detection. He then steered the ship directly toward Union forces, surrendering it and delivering valuable cargo, including ammunition and artillery, into Union hands. But this wasn’t just an act of military strategy—it was liberation. Smalls and the crew delivered themselves and their families to freedom.
This escape wasn’t spontaneous—it was meticulously planned, combining Smalls’ knowledge of navigation, military routines, and the weaknesses of the Confederate defense. His actions didn’t just free him; they provided a morale boost to the Union cause and paved the way for Black men to enlist in the Union army.
Reflection: What risks are worth taking for liberation, and how can strategic knowledge play a role in achieving freedom?
From Escapee to Leader: Robert Smalls’ Impact
Smalls didn’t stop with his escape. His bravery propelled him into a life of leadership and advocacy. He became a key figure in recruiting Black soldiers for the Union army and later transitioned into politics, becoming one of the first African Americans elected to the U.S. Congress. He advocated for education, voting rights, and fair treatment for freedmen.
His journey from enslavement to a U.S. Congressman (House of Representatives 1875 -1887) highlights the importance of leveraging liberation not just for individual freedom, but for collective progress. Smalls understood that true freedom wasn’t just personal—it was political, economic, and generational.
Actionable Step: Reflect on what liberation means in your life and consider how you can use your freedom to create pathways for others.
Smalls’ Escape as a Blueprint for Modern Liberation
Robert Smalls’ story offers several key lessons for those of us engaged in liberation work today:
Knowledge Is Power: Smalls’ intimate knowledge of Confederate operations allowed him to execute a nearly flawless escape. In modern liberation work, knowing the systems we’re working within—and against—can be a powerful tool.
Strategic Risk-Taking: Liberation often involves risk, but not all risks are equal. Smalls’ success lay in the fact that his risks were calculated, strategic, and executed with precision.
Collective Liberation: Smalls didn’t just free himself; he freed his family and others. Modern movements remind us that true liberation is collective, not individual.
Leadership After Liberation: Smalls transitioned seamlessly from liberator to leader, reminding us that the work doesn’t stop once we achieve freedom. The responsibility to advocate and build continues.
Reflection: What role do you see yourself playing after liberation—whether for yourself or your community?
The Legacy of Robert Smalls: An Ongoing Story of Defiance and Success
Smalls’ escape and political career remind us that liberation isn’t just a singular event—it’s a lifelong journey that requires sustained effort. His story is deeply embedded in the legacy of Black resilience and achievement, showing that even in the face of systemic oppression, it’s possible to create meaningful change.
In today’s world, Smalls’ legacy lives on through those who refuse to settle for the status quo and who understand that liberation requires bold moves, strategic action, and leadership rooted in justice.
A Paradigm Shift
This series is essential because it tells the truth about how enslaved Africans and Black people have consistently fought for our own freedom. Stories like Robert Smalls’ are reminders that the idea of “Lincoln freed the slaves” is not only inaccurate—it’s a harmful centering of whiteness that erases the reality of our fight. We freed ourselves. Lincoln signed a paper.
Without the continued acts of defiance, resistance, and collective showing up, I wouldn’t even be here to share these stories with you.
Imagine how much history—how much human brilliance and potential—was stolen or lost because of the violence and cruelty of white supremacy throughout history. If our ancestors hadn’t consistently shown up for themselves and each other, I wouldn’t be able to read, write, or share this story with you today. The weight of what was lost—art, innovation, knowledge—due to the violence of oppression is unimaginable. And yet, what we’ve managed to preserve is a testament to our strength.
I choose to carry forward the lessons of my ancestors and honor their legacy through action, ensuring that future generations have the freedom to create, thrive, and contribute to a better world.
A 28-Day Journey Through Black Resistance and Liberation
The story of Robert Smalls is one of many featured in my 28-Day Journey Through Black Resistance and Liberation. Each day, we explore historical moments that center Black resilience, strategic defiance, and collective progress. With age-appropriate activities and continuous updates, this living resource is designed to educate and inspire families and individuals.
🌱 Join the journey today: https://desireebstephens.bio/shop/98d6f2f8-2827-4291-b29c-1ceaf77deaac
Let’s carry forward the lessons of our ancestors and honor their legacy through action.
In solidarity and liberation,
Desireé B. Stephens CPS-P
Educator | Counselor | Community Builder
Founder, Make Shi(f)t Happen
I've always loved that story! So inspiring. 💕