Hiram Rhodes Revels
Hiram Rhodes Revels: A Life of Service and Leadership
Full Name and Common Aliases
Hiram Rhodes Revels was born on September 27, 1827, in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He is often referred to as Reverend Hiram R. Revels or simply Reverend Revels.
Birth and Death Dates
September 27, 1827 - January 16, 1901
Nationality and Profession(s)
Revels was an American minister, educator, politician, and diplomat. He held multiple professions throughout his life, but is perhaps best known for his roles as a minister in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church and as a politician.
Early Life and Background
Hiram Revels' early life was marked by hardship and struggle. Born into slavery in North Carolina, he was later freed when the state abolished slavery in 1864. However, his freedom came at a great personal cost: his family was torn apart, and Revels himself suffered physical abuse and mistreatment.
Despite these challenges, Revels went on to pursue an education. He attended Knox College (now Knox Presbyterian Church) in Illinois, where he studied theology and became ordained as a minister in the AME Church. In 1870, he moved to Natchez, Mississippi, where he would become a prominent figure in the local community.
Major Accomplishments
Revels' greatest accomplishment was his election to the United States Senate in 1870. As a Republican, he became one of the first African Americans to serve in Congress. This historic appointment marked a significant milestone in American history, as it helped pave the way for future generations of African American politicians.
In addition to his time in the Senate, Revels was also a dedicated educator and minister. He founded Le Moyne College (now Alcorn State University) in Mississippi, which would go on to become one of the first historically black colleges in the United States.
Notable Works or Actions
Revels' most notable work is likely his tenure as a U.S. Senator. During this time, he was an outspoken advocate for civil rights and social justice. He also worked tirelessly to promote economic development in Mississippi, particularly among African American communities.
In addition to his legislative efforts, Revels was a respected leader within the AME Church. He served as a minister for over 40 years, earning a reputation as a compassionate and dedicated spiritual guide.
Impact and Legacy
Hiram Revels' impact on American history is immeasurable. His election to the Senate helped break down barriers of racism and prejudice, paving the way for future generations of African American politicians.
Revels' legacy extends far beyond his time in Congress, however. As a minister, educator, and community leader, he inspired countless individuals with his unwavering commitment to social justice and equality.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Hiram Revels is widely quoted and remembered for his courageous leadership and advocacy on behalf of African American communities. His historic appointment to the Senate, combined with his tireless efforts as a minister and educator, have made him an iconic figure in American history.
Revels' quotes often highlight the importance of perseverance, compassion, and community building. For example, he once said: "The highest honor that can be bestowed upon any people is to give them the right to self-government." This quote captures his unwavering commitment to democracy and equality, and serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of his life's work.
In conclusion, Hiram Rhodes Revels was a remarkable individual whose life's work continues to inspire and influence Americans today. Through his groundbreaking appointment to the Senate, his dedication to education and community development, and his unwavering advocacy for social justice, he left an indelible mark on American history.
Quotes by Hiram Rhodes Revels
While I appreciated the educational advantages I enjoyed in the school and was proud of what I could show in mental culture, I had an earnest desire for something more than a mere business education... I desired to study for a profession, and this prompted me to leave my native state.
We are in the midst of an exciting canvass... I am working very hard in politics as well as in other matters. We are determined that Mississippi shall be settled on a basis of justice and political and legal equality.
The Legislature, which was elected under the Constitution framed and supported by colored men, declared that a man having more than an eighth of African blood in his veins was ineligible to office or a seat in the Legislature of the State of Georgia.
The colored race saved to the noble women of New England and the middle States men on whom they lean today for security and safety. Many of my race, the representatives of these men on the field of battle, sleep in the countless graves of the South.
It is evident that it is the belief of Christian people in this country and in all other enlightened portions of the world that as a nation, we have passed through a severe ordeal - that severe judgments have been poured out upon us on account of the manner in which a poor, oppressed race was treated in this country.
I maintain that the past record of my race is a true index of the feelings which today animate them. They bear toward their former masters no revengeful thoughts, no hatreds, no animosities. They aim not to elevate themselves by sacrificing one single interest of their white fellow-citizens.
I hold that establishing mixed schools will not harm the white race. I am their friend. I said in Mississippi, and I say here, and I say everywhere, that I would abandon the Republican party if it went into any measures of legislation really damaging to any portion of the white race, but it is not in the Republican party to do that.
Have the colored people done anything to justify the prejudice against them that does exist in the hearts of so many white persons and, generally, of one great political party in this country? Have they done anything to justify it? No, sir.
Go to the depot here, now, and what will you see? A well-dressed colored lady, with her little children by her side, whom she has brought up intelligently and with refinement, as much so as white children, comes to the cars, and where is she shown to? Into the smoking car, where men are cursing, swearing, spitting on the floor.
During the canvass in the State of Mississippi, I traveled into different parts of that state, and this is the doctrine that I everywhere uttered: that while I was in favor of building up the colored race, I was not in favor of tearing down the white race.