Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman: A Legacy of Courage and Freedom

Harriet Tubman, born around 1822 as Araminta Ross in Dorchester County, Maryland, overcame the brutal conditions of slavery to become a champion of freedom. Her extraordinary life saw her rise from an enslaved woman to a fearless conductor on the Underground Railroad, a military strategist during the Civil War, and a vocal advocate for women’s rights.

Early Life and Escape from Slavery

Tubman was born into slavery and endured severe hardships from an early age. As a child, she suffered a severe head injury when she was struck by a heavy object thrown by an overseer, leading to lifelong health issues such as seizures and sudden blackouts. Despite these challenges, she developed a strong sense of faith and resilience.

In 1849, fearing she would be sold, Tubman decided to flee. She successfully escaped to Philadelphia, but freedom alone was not enough—she was determined to return and help others find their way to liberty.

Leading Others to Freedom on the Underground Railroad

Rather than settling into a new life in the North, Tubman took great personal risks by traveling back to the South numerous times to guide enslaved individuals to freedom. Over about a decade, she made roughly 13 missions, leading approximately 70 people to free states and Canada through a secret network known as the Underground Railroad. Her bravery and leadership earned her the nickname "Moses," as she was seen as a deliverer of her people.

She worked strategically, using disguises, secret routes, and trusted allies to evade capture. Despite the immense dangers, she never lost a passenger.

A Role in the Civil War

Tubman’s fight against slavery continued during the Civil War. She offered her skills to the Union Army, serving as a nurse, cook, and later as a scout and spy. Her knowledge of the South’s landscape and her ability to navigate secret paths made her an invaluable asset.

In 1863, she played a key role in the Combahee River Raid in South Carolina, an operation that freed more than 700 enslaved people. This made her the first woman to plan and lead an armed military expedition in the war.

Champion for Women’s Rights

After the war, Tubman turned her attention to another critical cause—women’s suffrage. She traveled across the country, giving speeches and advocating for women’s right to vote. Although she did not live to see the 19th Amendment passed, her contributions laid the groundwork for future generations of activists.

A Lasting Legacy

Harriet Tubman’s influence has endured long after her passing in 1913. She has been honored in numerous ways, from schools and historical landmarks bearing her name to discussions about featuring her portrait on U.S. currency. In 2024, she was posthumously awarded the honorary rank of brigadier general in Maryland’s National Guard, recognizing her military contributions during the Civil War.

Her life was a testament to unwavering courage and a commitment to justice. From escaping slavery to helping others find freedom, serving in the Union Army, and fighting for women’s rights, Tubman’s story continues to inspire people today.

*Sources: Associated Press and Wikepedia EN