First Black Man to Receive the Victoria Cross.

Check out The History Guy for more History That Deserves to be Remembered.

[russell-dijs]

William Nelson Edward Hall RIP. Still a hero.

[rob]

That's nothing short but incredible !

[barbarabudde]

This brave fella and Bass Reeves!!!! Thank you for telling their stories❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[theeoarsman]

In this day of re-make after re-make here's a story I'd like to see made into a movie along with the story of Bass Reeves!!!

[keithweiss]

Wow! Incredible history of an incredible man! I had never heard of him. Thanks History Guy!

[beckybanta]

How sad we are not introduced to or learn about special persons & their adventures & contributions to us all. Thank you that you brought him to light!😊

[dianekelly]

William Hall was quite the adventurous soul, yet duty bound for significant events, which became historical milestones. It is almost as if he was a time traveler exploring a destiny tour.

[OTDMilitaryHistory]

After retiring from the Royal Navy, he lived the rest of his life in relative obscurity.

[nolongerblocked]

There needs to be a movie about this man's life, it'd be incredible

[snowdropinla]

Mr. HG, I enjoy and appreciate your posts! This one is especially interesting, but they all are excellent. Thank you for your hard work and curiosity

[jmeyerrn]

Mr HG: this is a wondeeful post. I missed my era; not that of slavery, but those tall ships. I would hasved loved visiting all the ports this gentleman did what an amazing story!

[masuganut]

It’s shameful that we were not taught about this man. His life was extraordinary.

[marcydrake]

Oh History Guy, I’m so glad you exist. We’re going to need guys like you to get through what’s coming. Teaching real history is a very important part of how we get out of the mess we’re in. ❤

[michaelharrison]

HMS Shannon had previously engaged an American ship, the USN Chesapeake, and it was boarded by the Shannon during the War of 1812. On board the Shannon was a young Midshipman, Provo Wallis, who would later rise to the rank of Admiral Of The Fleet and GCB, in the RN.
Very interesting story about the VC!👍👍

[Weazel]

So where is the twelve part HBO series on this man? This needs to happen!

[scotiadragoon]

I knew two brothers who are direct descendants of his. One joined the army after going on stress leave from the local postal sorting station( which has been listed as the most-toxic workplace in Canada).
He was deployed to Afghanistan, where his LAV was hit by an IED and pinned down by( < spelling edit) enemy fire. The captain in command sat unresponsive to the situation while Phil ran out, under fire, to pull the top gunner back to safety, and secured the crippled LAV until rescue arrived.
No recognition.

[timothymills]

History guy is why the internet is awesome. ❤

[philiphughes]

When we have Black History Month in the UK, this gent along with Mary Seacole, Walter Tull, and so many more people of colour who served and became part of Georgian and Victorian society are seldom mentioned.

[animtorfiddler]

Thank you for the post. I appreciate your research, the biography and illustrations. Fascinating story.

[grovermartin]

Amazing! I could really go for a full documentary about him! Or docudrama, at least.