Robert Smalls: Civil War Contributions

The video explores the life of Robert Smalls, a black hero who escaped slavery by commandeering a Confederate ship and later became a Union hero. Smalls' contributions during the Civil War, his role in recruiting black troops, and his political career during Reconstruction are highlighted. Despite facing racial discrimination, Smalls' legacy as a pioneer for equality and justice endures.

What is the main reason the History Guy suggests Robert Smalls as a subject for a superhero film?

• He was a famous athlete.

• He was a fictional character.

• He was a real-life hero with an incredible story.

• He was a famous actor.

What skill did Robert Smalls develop that was crucial during the Civil War?

• Blacksmithing

• Boat piloting

• Carpentry

• Cooking

How did Robert Smalls and his crew manage to escape with the CSS Planter?

• By swimming to the Union blockade

• By bribing the Confederate officers

• By disguising themselves as Confederate soldiers

• By taking advantage of the officers leaving the ship at night

What was one of Robert Smalls' significant contributions to the Union during the Civil War?

• He led a cavalry charge.

• He helped disarm Confederate mines.

• He negotiated peace treaties.

• He designed new warships.

What role did Robert Smalls play in the recruitment of black troops?

• He only supported white troops.

• He was instrumental in convincing leaders to allow it.

• He was indifferent to the recruitment.

• He opposed the recruitment.

During the Reconstruction era, what political position did Robert Smalls hold?

• Senator of New York

• Governor of South Carolina

• Mayor of Charleston

• Member of the United States House of Representatives

What was a major challenge Robert Smalls faced during his political career?

• Financial difficulties

• Violence and intimidation from anti-reconstructionists

• Lack of public speaking skills

• Opposition from his own party

What did Robert Smalls do with the prize money he received from the Union?

• He invested in a business.

• He donated it to charity.

• He purchased his former owner's home.

• He saved it for his children's education.

What was the significance of the USAV Major General Robert Smalls?

• It was the first US Army vessel named after an African-American.

• It was the first vessel to sail around the world.

• It was the largest vessel in the US Navy.

• It was the first US Army vessel named after a Confederate general.

What does the quote on Robert Smalls' monument emphasize?

• The need for segregation

• The superiority of his race

• The equality of his race and the need for equal opportunities

• The need for special defense for his race