In what is possibly the most famous slave revolt in American history, Nat Turner led a slave uprising of 75 against white slave owners. Ultimately the revolt was put down, but not after proving the determination and strength of the slave revolters.
Nat Turner was owned by Joseph Travis of Southampton, Virginia. After a solar eclipse in February of 1831, Turner was convinced that God had chosen him to lead a slave revolt. Several months later, in August, Turner and seven other slaves led an insurrection against Travis and his family. It was Turner's belief that this would lead to a massive rebellion, but only 75 slaves joined the revolt. In all, about 50 whites were killed.
The local state militia sent 3,000 troops to confront the Turner rebels and the revolt was quickly put down. Over 100 innocent slaves were killed in retaliation for the rebellious actions. Turner went into hiding but was captured and executed on November 11, 1831.