Star Trek: 10 Best Uhura Moments
4. An Example Of A Brighter Future For Abraham Lincoln
The Savage Curtain is a later episode of the Original Series, featuring Nichelle Nichols' final appearance as Uhura in the show. The premise, though a bit silly, contains an incredibly poignant moment for history enthusiasts - the meeting between President Abraham Lincoln and Lieutenant Uhura.
Created by the Excalbians, Lincoln is beamed aboard the Enterprise and treated with full Presidential honours. He is given a tour of the ship, leading him to the bridge, wherein he shares this exchange with Uhura:
What a charming Negress. Oh, forgive me, my dear. I know that in my time some used that term as a description of property.
But why should I object to that term, sir? You see, in our century we've learned not to fear words.
Lincoln famously advocated for the abolition of slavery in the United States, a campaign that saw the secession of several southern states. Though the Civil War would end, and Lincoln would be reelected President for a second term, he would not live to see the full success of his Emancipation Proclamation.
In the 23rd century, Uhura is a living example of the success of the abolition of slavery, and segregation, and of the advancement of the human race toward peace and understanding. While this future is still a way off, as of 2022, it remains an incredibly touching moment in Star Trek history.