Robert Smalls: A Hero's Journey

Robert Smalls, a 23-year-old enslaved man, orchestrated a daring escape from slavery during the Civil War. He commandeered a Confederate ship, The Planter, and navigated it past several Confederate checkpoints to reach Union territory, securing freedom for himself, his family, and the crew. Smalls' bravery and strategic planning were pivotal, and he later became a U.S. Congressman, symbolizing his significant contributions to both the Civil War and Reconstruction.

What year was Robert Smalls elected to the United States House of Representatives?

• 1890

• 1880

• 1862

• 1874

What was the name of the ship Robert Smalls was pressed into service on?

• The Alabama

• The Monitor

• The Merrimack

• The Planter

How old was Robert Smalls when he staged his escape?

• 23

• 21

• 25

• 27

What was the main goal of Smalls and his fellow crewmembers during their escape?

• To hide in Charleston Harbor

• To join the Confederate army

• To meet their family members and sail to Union Territory

• To destroy the ship

How did Robert Smalls disguise himself during the escape?

• As the ship's captain

• As a civilian

• As a Confederate officer

• As a Union soldier

What was the most dangerous checkpoint Smalls had to pass during the escape?

• Fort Moultrie

• Fort Sumter

• Fort Wagner

• Fort Pulaski

What did Smalls replace the Palmetto and rebel flags with as they approached Union territory?

• A red flag

• A Union flag

• A white bed sheet

• A blue flag

What did Smalls and his crew narrowly avoid as they approached Union territory?

• A storm

• Cannon fire

• A blockade

• A patrol boat

What was the ultimate outcome for Smalls, his family, and the crew of the Planter?

• They were captured

• They were freed

• They were imprisoned

• They were sent back