On June 21, 1832, Joseph Hayne Rainey was born in Georgetown, South Carolina. Born into slavery, Rainey purchased his freedom and became a successful businessman. In 1870, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, becoming the first African American to serve in Congress. Rainey served five terms, advocating for civil rights and education for freedmen during Reconstruction. His legacy paved the way for future generations of Black politicians. Word In Black
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