Legends of the American Spirit: Harriet Tubman

In a time when many were oppressed and denied their basic rights, one woman’s courage and commitment to freedom would go on to change the course of history. Harriet Tubman emerged as a fierce leader and advocate for the enslaved, risking her life repeatedly to guide others to freedom. Her work as a conductor on the Underground Railroad and her role in the Civil War make her one of the most remarkable figures in American history.

The Conductor of the Underground Railroad and Freedom Fighter

Harriet Tubman, born Araminta Ross in 1822 in Dorchester County, Maryland, was born into slavery, but her determination and courage would ultimately make her one of the most significant figures in the fight for freedom and equality in American history. Tubman escaped from slavery in 1849, after hearing that she and her family were to be sold. She fled to Philadelphia, where she found freedom, but instead of staying in safety, she made it her mission to return to the South to help other enslaved individuals escape.

Over a span of approximately 13 trips back to the South, Tubman risked her life countless times to lead approximately 70 enslaved people to freedom along the Underground Railroad. She used a network of safe houses and secret routes to navigate the perilous journey, guiding people to free states and Canada. Tubman’s leadership, intuition, and knowledge of the land were vital to her success.

During the Civil War, Tubman worked for the Union Army, initially as a cook and nurse, but soon proving her worth as a spy and military scout. She was the first woman to lead an armed raid during the Civil War, helping liberate more than 700 enslaved individuals during the Combahee River Raid in South Carolina. Tubman’s role in the war extended beyond her work on the battlefield, as she also advocated for the rights of Black soldiers and civilians alike.

After the war, Tubman continued her activism by working with the women’s suffrage movement, aligning herself with leaders such as Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Tubman spent her later years in Auburn, New York, where she continued to fight for civil rights and education for Black people. She was known for her deep faith, remarkable resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Harriet Tubman passed away on March 10, 1913, but her legacy endures. She is remembered not only as the courageous conductor of the Underground Railroad but also as a pioneer of freedom whose actions helped to change the course of American history.

Harriet Tubman’s life is a testament to the power of determination, courage, and the unyielding desire for justice. From her heroic actions on the Underground Railroad to her service in the Civil War and her tireless efforts to improve the lives of African Americans, Tubman’s legacy as a champion of freedom continues to inspire generations. She is truly one of America’s most legendary figures, symbolizing the fight for equality and human rights.