Robert Charles: A Symbol of Resistance Against Racism and Violence
by Giovanne Robb on Apr 02, 2023
Robert Charles was a black American hero who is rarely talked about in history books. Despite being born into poverty, he was able to educate himself and become a successful businessman. However, his story is most commonly associated with the events that led to his death on July 23, 1900.
On that day, Charles was walking down a street in the city's segregated district when he was confronted by a group of three white police officers (Sergeant Jules C. Aucion, J.D. Cantrelle and August Mora.) During the harassments, gun shots were fired from both parties.
Although neither was killed, Charles fled to his residence for refuge. When the policemen arrived at his house, Charles fired his rifle, killing two officers, including the police chief. While the rest of the officers sought cover, Charles fled the scene, leading to a police manhunt.
White supremacists didn't like taking this "L." The next day, a crowd of them gathered at the location where the policemen were killed and called for the lynching of Charles. Numerous events of lawlessness and civil unrest occurred over the next three days, as mobs of whites roamed the city to terrorize the black community. Three blacks were killed, eleven others were hospitalized, and over fifty were injured. Local newspaper reports exacerbated the rioting by blaming the unrest on blacks. Even as they tried to change the narrative, Mr. Charles and many other black people knew the truth and refused to back down.
Word would get out of where Mr. Charles was hiding and he was eventually found. Whites surrounded the house where he had taken refuge and another shootout occurred between the men outside and Charles. He shot 27 white people who were coming to kill him, including four police officers, before being killed himself.
The events surrounding Robert Charles' death were widely covered in the media at the time, and his story became a symbol of resistance against the systemic racism and violence that were prevalent during that era. Charles was hailed as a hero by many black Americans who saw his actions as a courageous stand against oppression.
Despite the tragedy of Robert Charles' story, his legacy continues to inspire those who fight for black social justice and equality today. His courage in standing up against injustice serves as a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming odds, it is possible to make a difference. His bravery in standing up against oppression and brutality is an inspiration to us all.
