The Life of Harriet Tubman
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Harriet Tubman, born Araminta Ross around 1822 in Maryland, was a former enslaved person who became a leading abolitionist and activist. After escaping to freedom in 1849, she made about 13 missions, guiding around 70 enslaved individuals to safety via the Underground Railroad, earning the nickname “Moses.”
Escape from Slavery
Tubman escaped to Philadelphia in 1849 after enduring years of physical abuse and hardship. Her determination to rescue her family and others drove her to return to Maryland multiple times, leading many to freedom.
Here’s what happened when Harriet returned to Maryland:
Contributions During the Civil War
During the Civil War, she served as a cook, nurse, and armed scout for the Union Army. She led a raid at Combahee Ferry in 1863, freeing over 700 enslaved people, making her one of the first women to lead an armed military operation in U.S. history.
Here’s how Tubman freed the enslaved people. To learn more:
Legacy
After the war, Tubman continued her activism, supporting women’s suffrage and opening a home for elderly African Americans in Auburn, New York. She passed away on March 10, 1913, but her legacy of courage and freedom lives on.
Read this to know about her legacy:
Harriet Tubman’s life is a powerful symbol of resilience and the fight for equality. Her planned appearance on the U.S. $20 bill will further honor her enduring impact on American history.