4. Robert Smalls: Hijack on the High Seas
In a feat worthy of any action film, Robert Smalls masterminded a daring escape in 1862 by commandeering the Confederate ship CSS Planter. Smalls disguised himself as the captain, steering the vessel past Confederate checkpoints and straight into Union waters—delivering freedom to himself, his crew, and their families. His bold move not only secured their liberty but also inspired the enlistment of Black sailors in the Union Navy. Discover more at Smithsonian Magazine.
