Be Free or Die

The Amazing Story of Robert Smalls' Escape from Slavery to Union Hero

By: Cate Lineberry

Narrated by: J. D. Jackson

Facing death rather than enslavement - a story of one man's triumphant choice and ultimate rise to national hero.

It was a mild May morning in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1862, the second year of the Civil War, when a 23-year-old slave named Robert Smalls did the unthinkable and boldly seized a Confederate steamer. With his wife and two young children hidden on board, Smalls and a small crew ran a gauntlet of heavily armed fortifications in Charleston Harbor and delivered the valuable vessel and the massive guns it carried to nearby Union forces.

To be unsuccessful was a death sentence for all. Smalls' courageous and ingenious act freed him and his family from slavery and immediately made him a Union hero while simultaneously challenging much of the country's view of what African-Americans were willing to do to gain their freedom.

After his escape, Smalls served in numerous naval campaigns off Charleston as a civilian boat pilot and eventually became the first Black captain of an Army ship. In a particularly poignant moment Smalls even bought the home that he and his mother had once served in as house slaves.

©2017 Cate Lineberry (P)2018 Tantor

Voters Rights/ Reconstruction/ Heroism

Every Page-of this book was wonderful. Little Bravery and Intelligence Stood out the most.

Extremely well done!

This book not only does an excellent job of recounting Robert Smalls extraordinary life, pursuit of freedom and contributions to this country, it also gives the reader a feel for the complex climate of the times by examining the political policies and players involved that lead to and followed the failed rebellious coup of the Confederacy.

Thank you for this history!

In telling Smalls' story, Cate Lineberry has dignified African-Americans with their God-given right to life, liberty and property!
I have come to know a compassionate and kind people, the Gullah and their culture. As an avid reader of history, I have thoroughly enjoyed the historical role of South Carolina's Charleston, Beaufort & the Sea Isalnds. What a treassure trove of historical gems!
But a pity, the whites could not rise to the gracious perspective, generous spirit and neighborly love exemplified by Robert Smalls with what the Scriptures taught.

The courage of Smalls and others at such a volatile.

We should know this name, Robert Smalls.The courage of Smalls and others at such a volatile.

This is a true story of our history, which I have never heard of before!

The book describes a well written story of true events in an interesting manner. It shows the importance of individual courage, determination and strength to promote what is good and right and fair, in the face of danger or personal loss.