Robert Smalls: Political Legacy and Impact

Robert Smalls, a former slave, became a Civil War hero by commandeering a Confederate ship and delivering it to the Union. He served in the Union Navy and advocated for black soldiers. Post-war, he was a political leader in South Carolina, helping draft a new constitution and serving in Congress. Despite facing corruption charges, he was pardoned and continued to influence politics. His life exemplifies the opportunities seized by ex-slaves during Reconstruction and the resistance they faced from Southern whites.

What significant action did Robert Smalls take during the Civil War that made him a national hero?

• He negotiated a peace treaty.

• He led a successful charge at Gettysburg.

• He delivered a Confederate ship to Union forces.

• He freed all slaves in South Carolina.

What role did Robert Smalls play in the Union Navy after his heroic act?

• He commanded the ship Planter.

• He served as a cook.

• He became a shipbuilder.

• He was a naval strategist.

What was one of Robert Smalls' contributions to South Carolina after the Civil War?

• He helped draft a new state constitution.

• He led a rebellion against the state legislature.

• He founded a new political party.

• He became the governor.

How long did Robert Smalls serve as a representative in the United States Congress?

• Four years

• Eight years

• Twelve years

• Sixteen years

Why was Robert Smalls' political influence significant in South Carolina?

• He was a wealthy landowner.

• He had the support of the Confederate veterans.

• African-Americans outnumbered whites in the state.

• He was the only African-American politician.

What was the reaction of former Confederates to the rise of black elected officials like Robert Smalls?

• They ignored their presence.

• They supported their efforts.

• They joined their political campaigns.

• They vowed to retaliate.

What charges were brought against Robert Smalls by his political opponents?

• Treason

• Tax evasion

• Corruption

• Espionage

What was the outcome of the corruption charges against Robert Smalls?

• He was executed.

• He was imprisoned for life.

• He fled the country.

• He was pardoned by the governor.

What does Robert Smalls' life illustrate about the Reconstruction era?

• The lack of any significant changes in the South.

• The ease of political success for ex-slaves.

• The opportunities seized by ex-slaves and the resistance they faced.

• The complete acceptance of African-Americans in politics.

How did Robert Smalls' political career continue after the corruption charges?

• He retired from politics.

• He was elected to Congress multiple times.

• He became a judge.

• He moved to another state.