Crispus Attucks
Born a slave in Massachusetts in 1722, Crispus Attucks eventually escaped slavery and became a free man in 1750, according to the African American Registry. After being shot dead by British redcoats during the Boston Massacre, Attucks went down in history as the first man to die for America’s freedom.
James Lafayette
James Lafayette’s work as a spy helped deflect enemy troops’ advances, according to the African American Registry. Lafayette was also instrumental in setting up the stage for George Washington’s victory at Yorktown, the final battle in the war.
Nero Hawley
Nero Hawley joined the second Connecticut Regiment during the American Revolution, serving as a replacement for his master, according to the African Americans at War Encyclopedia. In 1777, Hawley joined Captain Granger’s company of the second Connecticut Regiment at Danbury. The regiment later joined Gen. George Washington in Pennsylvania and fought at Whitemarsh, near Valley Forge, Pa. In 1779, Hawley also was part of the attempt to storm stony point by Gen. “Mad” Anthony Wayne.
Richard Allen
Richard Allen was born into slavery in Philadelphia and purchased his freedom in 1777. Having been involved in a Methodist society as a slave, Allen subsequently traveled Methodist preaching circuits and delivered uplifting messages to Blacks, according to the Institute for the Study of American Evangelicals. Allen went on to establish the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church and was elected and consecrated as its first bishop in 1816.
Salem Poor
Salem Poor was born a free man in Andover, Mass. around 1750. According to the African American Registry, he enlisted in the Revolutionary war under Captain Benjamin Ames in Colonel Fryes’ regiment. He fought at Bunker Hill and was recognized for shooting down British Lieutenant Colonel James Abercrombie. Poor’s service and gallantry caused 14 officers to cite him with heroism.