Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Dorchester County, Maryland, around 1820. She was originally named Araminta Ross, but later changed her name to Harriet after her mother. Tubman endured the harsh conditions of slavery from a young age, and she suffered a severe head injury when she was just a teenager, which caused her to experience seizures and headaches for the rest of her life. Despite these challenges, Tubman managed to escape from slavery in 1849, using the Underground Railroad to make her way to freedom in Philadelphia. Her escape was a daring and dangerous journey, as she had to travel nearly 90 miles on foot, relying on the kindness of strangers and her own resourcefulness to avoid capture.
Tubman’s escape from slavery marked the beginning of her remarkable journey as an abolitionist and activist. She once said, “I had reasoned this out in my mind; there was one of two things I had a right to, liberty or death; if I could not have one, I would have the other.” This determination and courage would define her life’s work as she continued to fight for the freedom and rights of others who were still enslaved.
Underground Railroad and Abolitionist Activities
After reaching freedom in Philadelphia, Tubman became involved in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to free states and Canada. Tubman made numerous dangerous trips back to the South to help guide others to freedom, earning her the nickname “Moses” for her leadership and bravery. She became one of the most famous conductors of the Underground Railroad, helping approximately 70 people escape from slavery over the course of 13 missions.
In addition to her work with the Underground Railroad, Tubman also became involved in abolitionist activities, speaking at anti-slavery meetings and working with prominent abolitionists such as Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. She also became a supporter of John Brown’s efforts to incite a slave rebellion, and she played a key role in his raid on Harpers Ferry in 1859. Tubman’s dedication to the cause of abolition made her a powerful and influential figure in the fight against slavery.
Civil War Service and Activism
When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Tubman saw an opportunity to further her activism and contribute to the Union cause. She became a nurse, cook, and spy for the Union Army, using her knowledge of the South and her connections with former slaves to gather intelligence and support the Union war effort. She also became the first woman to lead an armed expedition during the war, guiding a group of soldiers on a raid that liberated more than 700 slaves in South Carolina.
Tubman’s service during the Civil War demonstrated her unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom and equality. She risked her life time and again to help others, and her efforts had a significant impact on the outcome of the war. After the war, Tubman continued to advocate for the rights of African Americans, working with organizations such as the National Association of Colored Women and speaking out against racial injustice.
Women’s Rights Advocacy
In addition to her work as an abolitionist and Civil War activist, Tubman also became involved in the women’s rights movement. She attended meetings of suffragists such as Susan Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and she spoke out about the need for women’s rights and equality. Tubman believed that women should have a voice in society and should be able to participate fully in political and social life.
Tubman’s advocacy for women’s rights was rooted in her own experiences as a woman of color who had faced discrimination and oppression. She understood the intersectionality of race and gender, and she fought for the rights of all women, regardless of their background. Tubman’s contributions to the women’s rights movement were an important part of her legacy, and she continues to be celebrated as a pioneer for both African American and women’s rights.
Later Years and Legacy
After the Civil War, Tubman settled in Auburn, New York, where she continued her activism and humanitarian work. She dedicated herself to helping former slaves find jobs, housing, and education, and she also established a home for elderly African Americans in need. Tubman’s commitment to serving others never wavered, and she remained an influential figure in the fight for civil rights until her death in 1913.
Tubman’s legacy as a fearless leader and advocate for freedom lives on today. Her contributions to the abolitionist movement, the Underground Railroad, and the Civil War have been widely recognized and celebrated. In 2016, it was announced that Tubman would be featured on the front of the new $20 bill, becoming the first woman in over a century to be honored on U.S. paper currency. Her life story has inspired countless books, films, and works of art, ensuring that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Commemoration and Honors
Throughout the years, Harriet Tubman has been honored with numerous memorials, monuments, and landmarks dedicated to her life and legacy. In 2013, President Barack Obama signed a proclamation designating the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument in Maryland, which includes sites associated with Tubman’s early life and escape from slavery. The Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn, New York, where she lived for many years, has also been preserved as a museum and historic site.
In addition to physical commemorations, Tubman has been celebrated through various cultural and artistic expressions. Her story has been depicted in numerous books, plays, and films, including the recent biographical film “Harriet” starring Cynthia Erivo. These representations have helped to keep Tubman’s memory alive and introduce her story to new audiences around the world.
Impact on Civil Rights Movement
Harriet Tubman’s impact on the civil rights movement cannot be overstated. Her fearless leadership and unwavering commitment to justice have inspired generations of activists and advocates for equality. Tubman’s work with the Underground Railroad laid the groundwork for future movements for civil rights and social justice, demonstrating the power of collective action and resistance against oppression.
Tubman’s legacy continues to resonate with contemporary movements for racial justice and equality. Her story serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience of those who have fought for freedom throughout history. As we continue to confront issues of systemic racism and inequality today, Harriet Tubman’s example remains a source of inspiration and empowerment for all those who strive for a more just and equitable society.
