Explore the incredible journey of Hiram Revels, who broke barriers in 1870 as the first Black U.S. Senator. Uncover the history of African American senators, a legacy that endures to this day.
Key points
Trailblazing Legacy: Hiram Revels, First Black U.S. Senator
On February 25, 1870, a remarkable milestone in American history unfolded as Hiram Rhodes Revels became the first Black person to serve in the U.S. Congress. Representing Mississippi as its Senator during the tumultuous era of Reconstruction, Revels left an indelible mark on the nation.
The Unique Circumstances:
Revels assumed his historic role under unique circumstances. He was sworn in to complete the unexpired term of Jefferson Davis, who vacated the Senate when Mississippi and other Southern states seceded from the United States, ultimately leading to Davis becoming the president of the Confederate States of America. Revels, a free-born individual from North Carolina, embarked on a journey that would shape the trajectory of African American representation in the U.S. Senate.
Revels Beyond the Senate:
Born a free man, Revels pursued education, becoming a minister with a strong commitment to community service. His preaching took him to various states, including Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Tennessee, Missouri, Kansas, and Maryland. Notably, Revels played a crucial role in establishing schools for Black children. His contributions extended to the military, where he served as a chaplain in the Union army during the Civil War, aiding in the formation of two Black regiments and participating in the Battle of Vicksburg in Mississippi.
A Historic Few:
The journey of African Americans in the U.S. Senate has been a slow but persistent progression. Following Revels, only ten other Black individuals have served in this esteemed legislative body. Among them are notable figures who overcame significant barriers, including Blanche Bruce, a former slave who represented Mississippi from 1875 to 1881, and Edward Brooke III, who served Massachusetts from 1967 to 1979.
famous Black Senators in U.S. history, since they went on to
become the first Black President and Vice-President,
respectively.
The Evolution Continues:
The legacy of African American senators spans the decades, evolving through pivotal moments in history. From the groundbreaking tenure of Carol Braun in Illinois (1993-1999) to the historic presidency of Barack Obama (2005-2008) and the groundbreaking achievements of Kamala Harris (California, 2017-2021), the journey reflects the ongoing struggle for representation and equality.
Noteworthy Senators
- Blanche Bruce – R – Mississippi 1875-1881 (former slave)
- Edward Brooke III – R – Massachusetts 1967-1979
- Carol Braun – D – Illinois 1993-1999
- Barack Obama – D – Illinois 2005-2008
- Roland Burris – D – Illinois 2009-2010
- Tim Scott – D – South Carolina 2013-current
- William “Mo” Cowan – D – Massachusetts 2013
(Historical Note: Mo Cowan’s term with Tim Scott marked the FIRST TIME EVER that there were more than one Black Senators simultaneously) - Corey Booker – D – New Jersey 2013-current
- Kamala Harris – D – California 2017-2021
- Raphael Warnock – D – Georgia 2021-current
Conclusion:
Hiram Revels’ groundbreaking journey paved the way for African American senators who followed in his footsteps. As we remember this historic figure on the anniversary of his swearing-in, we also acknowledge the resilience and tenacity of those who continue to break barriers and shape the narrative of Black representation in the U.S. Senate. The journey is ongoing, and the legacy of Hiram Revels lives on in the halls of Congress.
