Stephen Atkins Swails (1832–1900) was a notable African American figure during the Reconstruction era. After serving with distinction in the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War, becoming the first African American commissioned as a combat officer in the U.S. military, Swails transitioned into politics in South Carolina. He served as a state senator from 1868 to 1878, during which he held the influential position of president pro tempore for three terms. While specific records of his re-election date as president pro tempore are limited, his decade-long tenure underscores his significant role in South Carolina’s legislative leadership during Reconstruction.
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