Who was the first African American senator in U.S. history?

Hiram Revels was the first African American senator in U.S. history, serving from 1870 to 1871. He was a member of the Republican Party and represented Mississippi during the Reconstruction era following the Civil War. Revels' election to the U.S. Senate marked a significant moment in American history, as it symbolized the progress toward racial equality and the increased political participation of African Americans after the abolition of slavery. This was a time when many African Americans sought to hold office and participate in government, reflecting the changing social and political landscape of the nation during Reconstruction. Revels' role as a senator was particularly important, as he was able to represent the interests of African Americans and advocate for civil rights in a tumultuous period in U.S. history.