Harriet Tubman: The Woman Who Helped Free Slaves

Harriet Tubman is one of the most inspiring figures in American history. She was born a slave but escaped to freedom and dedicated her life to helping others find freedom too. Tubman became a leader in the fight against slavery, guiding people to safety through the Underground Railroad. Her bravery, intelligence, and determination made her a hero. Let’s learn about Harriet Tubman’s incredible life, her achievements, and the legacy she left behind.

What Did Harriet Tubman Do?

Harriet Tubman was born around 1822 in Maryland. Her birth name was Araminta Ross, but she later changed it to Harriet after her mother. She grew up as a slave, enduring hard labor and cruel treatment. In 1849, Tubman escaped slavery and fled to the North, where she found freedom.

But Harriet didn’t stop there. She joined the Underground Railroad, a secret network of safe houses and routes that helped slaves escape to free states or Canada. Harriet risked her life repeatedly to return to the South and lead others to freedom. She became known as the “Moses of her people” because, like Moses in the Bible, she guided others out of bondage.

During the Civil War, Harriet Tubman worked as a spy, nurse, and cook for the Union Army. She also led an armed raid in South Carolina that freed over 700 slaves. After the war, she fought for women’s rights and helped care for elderly African Americans in need.

Facts About Harriet Tubman

Her Head Injury
As a child, Harriet suffered a head injury when an overseer hit her with a heavy weight. This caused lifelong health problems, including severe headaches and fainting spells. Despite this, she became a fearless leader.
She Was Illiterate
Harriet Tubman never learned to read or write, but her sharp memory and strong instincts helped her navigate the Underground Railroad.
Her Code Names
Harriet used secret names and signals to communicate on the Underground Railroad. For example, she used songs like “Follow the Drinking Gourd” to guide escapees toward freedom.
$40,000 Bounty on Her Head
Slave owners offered a large reward for Harriet’s capture, but she was never caught.
She Freed Her Family
Harriet’s missions often focused on rescuing her family members, including her parents, siblings, and nieces.

Harriet Tubman Movie

In 2019, the movie Harriet was released. It tells the story of Harriet Tubman’s life and her heroic work on the Underground Railroad. The film shows her escape from slavery, her courage in leading others to freedom, and her role as a leader in the fight against slavery.

Cynthia Erivo plays Harriet Tubman in the movie, earning an Oscar nomination for her performance. The film highlights the dangers Tubman faced and the sacrifices she made to help others. It’s an excellent way to learn more about her story and gain a deeper appreciation for her bravery.

How Many Slaves Did Harriet Tubman Free?

Harriet Tubman made 13 missions on the Underground Railroad and personally freed about 70 slaves, including family and friends. She also gave advice and instructions that helped hundreds of others escape to freedom.

One of her most significant achievements came during the Civil War. In 1863, she helped lead the Combahee River Raid, which freed over 700 slaves from plantations in South Carolina. Harriet Tubman’s actions directly impacted the lives of hundreds and inspired countless others to fight for freedom.

Harriet Tubman Quotes

Harriet Tubman’s words reflect her courage, faith, and determination. Here are some of her most famous quotes:

“I was the conductor of the Underground Railroad for eight years, and I can say what most conductors can’t say—I never ran my train off the track and I never lost a passenger.”
- Harriet’s pride in her work shows her commitment to keeping others safe.
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
- This quote encourages people to believe in themselves and their ability to make a difference.
“If you hear the dogs, keep going. If you see the torches in the woods, keep going. If there’s shouting after you, keep going. Don’t ever stop. Keep going. If you want a taste of freedom, keep going.”
- This shows her determination and the advice she gave to those escaping slavery.
“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.”
- Harriet Tubman’s dedication to freedom was unwavering.

Why Harriet Tubman’s Story Matters

Harriet Tubman’s story reminds us of the power of bravery and compassion. She risked her life to help others and stood up against injustice. Her work not only helped free slaves but also inspired movements for women’s rights and equality. Tubman’s legacy continues to teach us about the importance of fighting for freedom and standing up for what is right.

Key Information

Harriet Tubman escaped slavery and became a conductor on the Underground Railroad, freeing about 70 slaves on her missions.
She helped free over 700 slaves during the Civil War.
Tubman worked as a spy, nurse, and leader in the Union Army.
She was called the “Moses of her people” for her work in guiding others to freedom.
The movie Harriet (2019) tells her story.
Famous quotes from Harriet include, “Every great dream begins with a dreamer” and “Keep going” during hard times.