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| Hiram R. Revels ( September 1, 1822 - January 16, 1901) |
An African-American Minister and Educator, Hiram Revels made history when he became the first black citizen to be elected to the U.S. Senate, from 1870-1871, representing Mississippi. Revels seat in the senate wasn't easily accessed--he faced much disapproval. There were many claims that Revels was not a U.S citizen because African-Americans were not considered citizens until 1868 (due to the 14th Ammendent ) just two years prior to the election. At the time, in order be a U.S Senator one has to have been a citizen for 9 years, and because African-Americans recently gained their citizenship, they believed Revels could not be appointed. Despite these convictions, Revels was revealed to be of mixed race, which was sustainable as an adequate argument--Revels prevailed and made history.
As a senator, Revels was a dedicated advocate of racial equality, constantly striving to widen recognition of the capability of African-Americans. Revels himself was quite the example of the capable African-American. Praised for his eloquence, and for being extremely vocal, he was well received throughout the duration of his 1 year term as senator. Two months before the expiration of his term, he resigned and took a job as the President of of Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College, now known as Alcorn State.
To date, Revels is 1 of only 6 African-Americans to hold a seat in the U.S Senate--1 of those 6 is now our President. In nearly 150 years, we've had only 6 African-American Senators! Now that's something to dwell on. Hiram Revels, a prominent member of society and member of an exclusive 6 person club of African-American Senators. Revels is inspirational, and yet another reason why black history should be celebrated year 'round(K*W)
