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Today in History: Hiram Revels makes history as first Black senator

2/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 25, 1870, Hiram Rhodes Revels made history as the first African American to be seated in the U.S. Congress. Elected by the Mississippi legislature, Revels served in the Senate during the Reconstruction era, marking a significant milestone in American politics and representation for African Americans. His election symbolized progress in a post-Civil War society.

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Story summary

On February 25, 1870, Hiram Rhodes Revels made history as the first African American to be seated in the U.S. Congress. Elected by the Mississippi legislature, Revels served in the Senate during the Reconstruction era, marking a significant milestone in American politics and representation for African Americans. His election symbolized progress in a post-Civil War society.