Hiram Revels was a prominent figure in Black history as the first African American to serve in the United States Senate. Born in 1827 to free parents of African and European descent, Revels grew up in North Carolina and later attended seminary school in Indiana.

Revels became a minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church and was known for his powerful speaking abilities and activism in the fight against slavery and for civil rights. In 1870, Revels was elected to represent Mississippi in the U.S. Senate during the Reconstruction era following the Civil War.

Revels made history by becoming the first Black member of Congress, serving from February 1870 to March 1871. During his time in office, Revels advocated for racial equality, education, and civil rights for African Americans. His election was a significant milestone in the struggle for Black political representation and paved the way for future generations of Black leaders in government.