Essays on Harriet Tubman

c. March 1822 - March 10, 1913 (aged 90–91)

Harriet Tubman was a remarkable African American abolitionist, humanitarian, and Union spy during the American Civil War. Born into slavery around 1820, Tubman escaped from bondage in Maryland and embarked on a courageous journey to freedom. However, she did not stop there. Tubman went on to become one of the most influential figures in the fight against slavery.

The Underground Railroad, Abolitionism, the Civil War

Harriet Tubman's early life was marked by the harsh realities of slavery. Born around 1820 in Dorchester County, Maryland, Tubman was raised in a world where her freedom and basic human rights were denied. She experienced the cruelty of slavery firsthand, enduring physical and emotional hardships.
As a child, Tubman was subjected to the grueling labor demanded by her enslavers. She witnessed the suffering of her family and fellow enslaved individuals, igniting a deep sense of injustice within her. Despite the oppressive circumstances, Tubman demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness from an early age.

Around the age of 27, Tubman made the courageous decision to leave behind the bondage of her enslavement in Maryland and seek freedom.
In 1849, Tubman embarked on a perilous journey, venturing northward to Pennsylvania. Traveling at night to avoid detection, she relied on her resourcefulness and keen instincts to navigate the treacherous terrain and evade slave catchers.
Tubman's escape was not an isolated event. Over the years, she returned to the South multiple times, risking her own safety to lead enslaved individuals to freedom through the Underground Railroad—a clandestine network of routes and safe houses.
Her daring escape and subsequent efforts as a "conductor" on the Underground Railroad earned her the nickname "Moses," as she fearlessly led countless enslaved people to liberty.

In 1858, Harriet Tubman crossed paths with John Brown, forging a significant alliance that would leave a lasting impact on the fight against slavery. Tubman played a pivotal role in assisting Brown, contributing to the planning and recruitment efforts for his historic raid on Harpers Ferry in 1859.
With the onset of the Civil War, Tubman's commitment to the cause continued to shine. She eagerly joined the Union Army, initially serving as a dedicated nurse, offering her healing touch and compassionate care to wounded soldiers. However, Tubman's contributions extended beyond the confines of the medical field.
Recognizing her extraordinary skills and bravery, the Union Army enlisted Tubman as an armed scout and spy. Her exceptional knowledge of the southern terrain and her ability to navigate treacherous territories made her an invaluable asset to the Union forces. Tubman fearlessly ventured into enemy territory, gathering vital intelligence that aided the Union's strategic efforts.
One of Tubman's most notable achievements during her service was the guidance she provided during the Combahee River Raid. Leading a group of Union soldiers, Tubman played a crucial role in liberating over 700 enslaved individuals, offering them the opportunity to embark on a path to freedom and a brighter future.

Harriet Tubman's contributions to society and history are immeasurable, as she left an indelible mark on the fight for freedom, equality, and human rights. As a remarkable African American abolitionist, humanitarian, and Union spy, Tubman dedicated her life to the pursuit of justice.
Her most notable contribution was her pivotal role in the Underground Railroad, a secret network of safe houses and routes that facilitated the escape of countless enslaved individuals to free states and Canada. Tubman, known as the "Moses of her people," risked her own freedom and safety to guide enslaved individuals to liberty, making approximately 13 dangerous trips back to the South.
Tubman's bravery and determination were further demonstrated during the American Civil War, where she served as a nurse, scout, and spy for the Union Army. Her intelligence-gathering skills and knowledge of the southern terrain proved invaluable, aiding the Union forces in their efforts to defeat the Confederacy.
Beyond her direct actions, Tubman's life and legacy continue to inspire generations. Her unwavering commitment to justice, her resilience in the face of adversity, and her unwavering belief in the inherent dignity of all people have made her an enduring symbol of courage and hope.

Literature has played a significant role in depicting Tubman's narrative. One notable example is the novel "Harriet Tubman: The Moses of Her People" by Sarah Hopkins Bradford, published in 1869. This early biography served as a primary source for understanding Tubman's life and work. In more recent years, books like "Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom" by Catherine Clinton and "Bound for the Promised Land: Harriet Tubman: Portrait of an American Hero" by Kate Clifford Larson have provided comprehensive accounts of her life.
In terms of media, Harriet Tubman's story was brought to the big screen in the 2019 biographical film "Harriet," directed by Kasi Lemmons. The film portrayed Tubman's escape from slavery and her subsequent efforts as a conductor on the Underground Railroad. The film garnered critical acclaim for its portrayal of Tubman's strength and determination.
Furthermore, Tubman has been a recurring character in various documentaries and television shows focused on African American history and the abolitionist movement. Her representation in these media forms serves to honor her legacy and ensure that her contributions are remembered and celebrated.

Harriet Tubman holds immense importance as a subject of study and an essay topic due to her extraordinary contributions to American history and the fight for equality. Her life and achievements exemplify resilience, courage, and determination in the face of adversity, making her an iconic figure in the struggle against slavery.
Tubman's role as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, leading countless enslaved individuals to freedom, showcases her remarkable bravery and selflessness. Additionally, her involvement in the abolitionist movement, as well as her efforts as a Union spy during the Civil War, further emphasize her commitment to justice and equality.
Exploring Tubman's life allows for a deeper understanding of the hardships endured by enslaved individuals and the complexities of the Underground Railroad network. Her story sheds light on the resilience and strength of marginalized communities throughout history and serves as a source of inspiration for current and future generations.
Furthermore, studying Tubman provides an opportunity to examine the intersectionality of gender, race, and activism in the 19th century, highlighting the significant contributions of African American women to the fight for freedom and civil rights.

“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.”
“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.”

1. Bradford, S. (1869). Harriet, the Moses of her people. George W. Carleton.
2. Clinton, C., & Gates Jr, H. L. (Eds.). (2014). The portable nineteenth-century African American women writers. Penguin.
3. Clinton, C., & Davis, D. (2004). Harriet Tubman: The road to freedom. Little, Brown.
4. Humez, J. M. (2003). Harriet Tubman: The life and the life stories. University of Wisconsin Press.
5. Larson, K. (2004). Bound for the promised land: Harriet Tubman, portrait of an American hero. Ballantine Books.
6. Lowry, L. F. (2012). Harriet Tubman: Imagining a life. Vintage.
7. National Park Service. (n.d.). Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/hatu/index.htm
8. Nelson, M. (2008). Harriet Tubman: A biography. ABC-CLIO.
9. Tubman, H., & Bradford, S. (1872). Harriet Tubman: The Moses of her people. G. T. Stillman & Co.
10. Tyler-McGraw, M. (2004). Harriet Tubman: A new look at history. University of Virginia Press.