South Carolina is set to erect its first individual statue for an African American on its Statehouse lawn, commemorating the remarkable life of Robert Smalls. Smalls, a courageous figure from the Civil War era, gained recognition for his daring escape from slavery by commandeering a Confederate ship to freedom along with his family and several others.
However, Smalls' legacy extends far beyond his escape. He went on to serve a decade in the US House, played a pivotal role in amending South Carolina's constitution to grant Black men equal rights post-Civil War, and valiantly fought against the resurgence of racism that sought to undo the progress he had fought for.
