WAR FOR FREEDOM:African American Experiences in the Era of the Civil War
“Gentleman Jim”: Tough Choices in a Time of Crisis
When the Civil War broke out, James Robinson faced some tough choices:
How would he defend his property and keep his family safe in the face of violence that reached right into his front yard?
Whom could he trust to hide his family or guard his possessions?
Robinson made many fateful decisions in the war years.
After the war, Robinson found that his actions in this time of crisis would be judged with serious consequences for himself and his family. Had he proved himself a loyal Union man? Or had his dealings with local Confederates shown otherwise?
In this unit, you will learn his story, re-create his hearing before the Southern Claims Commission and then take a stand.
Did You Know?
George S. Patton III participated in military training exercises at Manassas Battlefield in 1939. His grandfather, Colonel George S. Patton, commanded the 22nd Virginia in the Civil War and was mortally wounded at the Battle of Third Winchester in September 1864.