Bill > SR52

This resolution commemorates the 155th anniversary of Hiram Rhodes Revels, an extraordinary African American trailblazer who became the first Black U.S. Senator in 1870, representing Mississippi. Born in 1827 in North Carolina as a free man, Revels had a multifaceted career as a Baptist preacher, barber, educator, and military chaplain who organized Black regiments during the Civil War. After the war, he became an alderman in Natchez and was elected to the Mississippi State Senate in 1869, where his powerful oratory and leadership skills impressed his colleagues. In a groundbreaking moment, he was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1870, overcoming significant racial barriers, and was sworn in after a contentious vote of 48 to 8. Following his Senate term, Revels became the first president of Alcorn University (now Alcorn State University) and briefly served as Mississippi's Secretary of State. The resolution honors his pioneering spirit, diplomatic approach, and significant contributions to American political history, recognizing him as a remarkable individual who opened doors for future African American legislators and demonstrated exceptional skill in navigating complex political environments during a challenging period of racial tension.

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SR/SR0052.xml