James Jacob Williams: Who was the African -American who fought bravely in the revolution of 1821

James Jacob Williams, a former slave from Baltimore and American philhellenic, is one of the most fascinating celebrities of the 19th century, as he served with courage and dedication to the Greek War of Independence, helping the country.

Along with other philhellenes, such as George Jarvis, Williams sacrifices to reinforce the struggle of the Greeks, leaving a legacy that remains indelible in Greek history.

The escalation from slavery

James Williams was born a slave to the American south, in a cane plantation near his hometown, Baltimore.

His life began with unbearable conditions and deprivation, but the power of his will led him to escape and find refuge in the US Navy.

With the help of his luck and courage, Williams escaped and found himself on a ship to the Barbaria coast in North Africa, launching a life full of adventures.

By American sailor, fighter for Greek freedom

Williams was in the fleet of famous Admiral Steven Decatour, where he worked as a mariner and participated in wars against the pirates of the Barbaria coast. With his experience and military abilities, Williams did not take long to stand out. The war against the pirates was only the beginning of its next great mission: to fight in the Greek struggle for independence.

In the shadow of the struggle for the freedom of Greece

When luck brought him to Greece, Williams was rescued by monks and discovered that he was in the midst of the Greek War of Independence. He was ready to help an entire people win their freedom, despite the fact that he was a former slave who had just managed to shake off oppression. He soon collaborated with great philhellenic figures, such as Lord Byron and George Jarvis, participating in major naval battles and sieges, such as the siege of Messolonghi.

James Williams’ novel

The story of James Williams is represented in the book « The Fantastic Journey of James Williams: To Breathe, To Believe » by Kostas Rethymniotakis.

The author emphasizes Williams’ course from slave to hero, highlighting his struggle and adventures in Greece, as well as his emotional development.

As Rethymniotakis notes, « the heroes become – they are not born ». Williams, with his excellent course, went through many difficulties and trials, managing to reach the culmination of heroism and participate in the revolution for the freedom of the Greek people.

The warrior and his offer in Greece

James Williams’ involvement in the Greek revolution was not limited to the battles.

Williams played an important role in the liberation of Athens and the Battle of Peta in Epirus, and appears to have also participated in the Navarino battle in 1827.

Although he was seriously injured in the battle, his struggle and his contribution to the Greek case were decisive.

James Williams’ heritage

James Williams died shortly after the Navarino battle and is believed to be buried in Argos, along with other philhellenic heroes. His commemorative stones are in the enclosure of the Church as a reminder of the sacrifices he made for the freedom of a people.

James Williams’ life was an Odyssey full of sacrifices, adventures and heroism.

He was the first American slave to escape and then fought for the freedom of another nation, leaving a legacy that is still honored today.

The price in the memory of

In 2013, MP John Sarbins honored Williams’ memory with a speech in Congress, United States, recognizing the importance of his contribution to freedom and solidarity between America and Greece.

As he said, « the story of James Williams and the Philhellenes will never be forgotten. »