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Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman was an African American abolitionist, humanitarian, and an armed scout and spy for the United States Army during the American Civil War. Born into slavery in Maryland, Tubman escaped to Philadelphia in 1849 and successfully  made about thirteen missions to rescue approximately seventy enslaved families and friends using the network of antislavery activists and safe houses known as the Underground Railroad. During the Civil War, she served as an armed scout and spy for the Union Army, becoming the first woman to lead an armed expedition in the war.

Tubman's remarkable life and achievements have made her a significant figure in American history and a symbol of courage and determination. She risked her own life countless times to rescue enslaved individuals, and her work as a scout and spy during the Civil War helped the Union Army to victory. In addition to her work as an abolitionist and military leader, Tubman was also a prominent advocate for women's suffrage and actively worked to improve the lives of African Americans in the post-war era.

Despite the hardships and dangers she faced throughout her life, Tubman remained dedicated to her cause and was unwavering in her commitment to helping others. She once said, "I freed a thousand slaves. I could have freed a thousand more if only they knew they were slaves." This determination and selflessness earned her the nickname "Moses," as she led her people to freedom just as the Biblical figure had done.

Today, Tubman is celebrated as a hero and a pioneer, and her legacy continues to inspire people around the world. In 2016, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that Tubman would replace Andrew Jackson on the front of the $20 bill, making her the first African American and the first woman to be featured on U.S. paper currency. This is a fitting tribute to a woman who dedicated her life to fighting for freedom and equality, and whose legacy continues to be celebrated and honored. Today children all around America learn about Harriet Tubman, her bravery, and her forever lasting legacy.


Sources:

“Harriet Tubman.” Biography.com, A&E Networks Television, 11 Aug. 2021, https://www.biography.com/activist/harriet-tubman. 

“Harriet Tubman.” PBS, Public Broadcasting Service, https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia/part4/4p1535.html. 

History.com Editors. “Harriet Tubman.” History.com, A&E Television Networks, 29 Oct. 2009, https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/harriet-tubman. 

Michals, Edited by Debra. “Harriet Tubman Biography.” National Women's History Museum, https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/harriet-tubman. 



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