Harriet Tubman, born Araminta Ross around 1822 in Dorchester County, Maryland, was an African American abolitionist, humanitarian, and freedom fighter. Her life's journey is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience, courage, and the unwavering pursuit of freedom. Born into slavery, Harriet Tubman would become one of the most iconic figures in American history, dedicating her life to fighting against the injustices of slavery and ensuring the freedom of hundreds of enslaved individuals.
Early Life and the Path to Freedom
Harriet Tubman’s early life was marked by the harsh realities of slavery. She was one of nine children born to Harriet Green and Benjamin Ross, both enslaved Africans. The conditions of slavery had a profound impact on her, with physical abuse, hard labor, and the constant threat of being sold to other slave owners. It was during this period that she suffered a severe head injury when an overseer threw a heavy metal weight at another slave, hitting her instead. This injury would cause her to suffer from seizures, headaches, and narcolepsy for the rest of her life.
Despite these challenges, Harriet Tubman found solace in her faith and the stories of freedom that her father, a devout Christian, shared with her. Her desire for freedom only intensified with time, and in 1849, she decided to escape to the free states in the North. Using the "Underground Railroad," a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved individuals to escape to freedom, Harriet Tubman began her journey. She traveled at night, using the North Star to guide her, and hid during the day to avoid detection. This perilous journey, which spanned nearly 90 miles, was just the beginning of her fight for freedom.
The Underground Railroad and Freedom Work
After achieving her own freedom, Harriet Tubman dedicated her life to helping others escape the bonds of slavery. She became a “conductor” on the Underground Railroad, returning to the South multiple times to lead hundreds of enslaved individuals to freedom. Her work was dangerous, with the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 increasing the penalties for aiding escaped slaves and the risk of capture. Yet, she persevered, earning the nickname “Moses” for her role in leading her people out of bondage.
Harriet Tubman's methods were meticulous and daring. She used coded songs, messages, and disguises to evade capture and communicate with potential escapees. Her knowledge of the natural world, gained from her experiences as a slave and a fugitive, allowed her to navigate the treacherous landscapes of the South and the North, always staying one step ahead of her pursuers. Her bravery and cunning made her a legend among abolitionists and a terror to slave owners.
| Year | Number of Escapes | Notable Events |
|---|---|---|
| 1850 | First escape, alone | Established her route on the Underground Railroad |
| 1851-1860 | Approximately 70-80 escapes, including family members | Became known as "Moses," continued to evade capture despite a $40,000 bounty |
Civil War and Later Life
During the American Civil War, Harriet Tubman continued her fight against slavery, becoming the first woman to lead a military expedition in the war. In 1863, she guided a group of Union soldiers on a raid in South Carolina, known as the Combahee River Raid, freeing over 700 enslaved individuals. Her military service and her work as a nurse and a cook for the Union Army further solidified her place in American history.
After the war, Harriet Tubman settled in Auburn, New York, where she continued to fight for the rights of women and African Americans. She married Nelson Davis, a former slave, and adopted a baby girl named Gertie. Despite her international recognition and the admiration of many, Harriet Tubman lived a simple life, dedicating her time to her family and her community. She died on March 10, 1913, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy that would inspire generations to come.
Legacy and Impact
Harriet Tubman’s legacy extends far beyond her own lifetime. She is remembered as a symbol of courage, resilience, and determination. Her fight against slavery and her contributions to the Union during the Civil War paved the way for future civil rights movements. Today, she is celebrated through numerous monuments, museums, and educational institutions dedicated to her life and work. The U.S. Treasury announced plans to add her portrait to the $20 bill, a testament to her enduring impact on American society.
Harriet Tubman's story also highlights the importance of preserving history and honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom and equality. Her life serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of slavery and the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the United States. As a figure of unyielding spirit and unwavering commitment to her beliefs, Harriet Tubman continues to inspire people around the world to stand against injustice and fight for the freedom and dignity of all individuals.
What was Harriet Tubman’s role in the Underground Railroad?
+Harriet Tubman was a “conductor” on the Underground Railroad, leading hundreds of enslaved individuals to freedom in the North. She used her knowledge of the land and her cunning to evade capture and guide escapees to safety.
How did Harriet Tubman contribute to the American Civil War effort?
+Harriet Tubman was the first woman to lead a military expedition in the war, guiding Union soldiers on a raid in South Carolina. She also worked as a nurse and a cook for the Union Army, contributing to the war effort in multiple capacities.
What is Harriet Tubman’s lasting legacy?
+Harriet Tubman’s legacy is one of courage, resilience, and determination. She is remembered as a symbol of the fight against slavery and a pioneer for women’s rights and racial equality. Her story continues to inspire people around the world to stand against injustice and fight for freedom and dignity.
