052 The Courageous Escape of Robert Smalls - One Minute History

Robert Smalls, a trusted crewman on the Confederate ship Planter, devised a daring escape plan to free himself, his family, and other slaves. On May 12, 1860, while the officers were ashore, Smalls commandeered the ship, mimicked the captain's signals, and navigated past Confederate checkpoints to reach Union forces. His successful escape made him a national hero, and he later became the captain of the Planter, fighting in 17 battles against the Confederates.

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