Hiram Rhodes Revels

Date of Birth: September 27, 1827

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: January 16, 1901

Biography

Hiram Rhodes Revels was an American politician, minister, and educator who made history as the first African American to serve in the United States Congress. Born on September 27, 1827, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Revels was the son of free Black parents. His early education was sporadic due to the social constraints of the time, but he managed to attend Knox College in Illinois and later became a minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Revels’ contributions to the Civil War included organizing two regiments of the United States Colored Troops and serving as a chaplain. His political career took off in the Reconstruction Era when he was elected to the Mississippi State Senate in 1869. Shortly thereafter, in 1870, he was appointed to fill a vacant U.S. Senate seat, making him the first Black person to serve in either house of Congress. His term in the Senate was marked by his efforts to advocate for racial equality and reconciliation. After his term, Revels continued to work in education and religious leadership. He served as the president of Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College in Mississippi and remained active in church affairs until his death on January 16, 1901.

5 Interesting Facts about Hiram Rhodes Revels

1. Hiram Rhodes Revels was the first African American to serve in the U.S. Congress.

2. He was a minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church and later the Methodist Episcopal Church.

3. Revels helped organize two regiments of the United States Colored Troops during the Civil War.

4. He served as the president of Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College after his political career.

5. Revels was a strong advocate for the education and political rights of African Americans during the Reconstruction Era.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hiram Rhodes Revels

1. “We are in the midst of an unexampled era of progress.”

2. “The colored race can furnish their quota for the nation’s defense; and they will do so if they are treated fairly.”

3. “My people were not last in the ranks of those who were willing to aid in putting down the rebellion.”

4. “I find that the prejudice in this country to color is very great, and I sometimes fear that it is on the increase.”

5. “I will never consent to sacrifice even one hair of the head of the humblest of my race.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Hiram Rhodes Revels’ exact net worth is not documented, but his highest net worth would be considered modest by today’s standards, given his roles as a minister, educator, and public servant during the 19th century.

Children

Hiram Rhodes Revels had six children with his wife, Phoebe A. Bass Revels. His children were educated and some followed in his footsteps in terms of public service and education.