Harriet Tubman: The Moses of Her People

Introduction

You know, Harriet Tubman is really something special in American history. She's like this superhero who showed endless courage and never stopped fighting for freedom—not just for herself but for everyone. Born into slavery, she busted out of those chains and then spent her life helping others do the same through what we call the Underground Railroad. This essay's gonna take you through her early days, how she made her daring escape, what she did with the Underground Railroad, and why she's still such a big deal today.

Early Life

Tubman was actually born Araminta Ross in Dorchester County, Maryland, around 1822. Her parents were Harriet Green and Ben Ross. They were slaves too, so Tubman got to see firsthand just how brutal life could be. She had to deal with some nasty working conditions and violence from when she was little. It's no wonder she became so determined to break free. Even though she couldn’t read or write, she was super smart and had a strong faith that pushed her toward freedom.

Escape from Slavery

Around 1849, Tubman decided enough was enough. She escaped slavery using the North Star as her guide and linked up with folks involved in the Underground Railroad—a secret network of people who helped slaves escape. Tubman made it all the way to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she found work and started plotting how she'd help others get out too. Her escape wasn't just about her; it kicked off a lifetime dedication to abolition.

The Underground Railroad

Tubman became a top "conductor" on the Underground Railroad—think of it as a secret network with safe houses and paths that helped slaves make their way to free states or even Canada. For about ten years, Tubman led around 13 trips down South and managed to rescue about 70 slaves, including family and friends. She'd travel at night and used songs as codes—pretty clever stuff! People called her "Moses," like the guy from the Bible who led his people out of slavery.

Contribution to the Civil War Effort

The Civil War came along, and Tubman's fight for freedom didn’t stop at the Underground Railroad. She worked as a nurse, cook, and even a spy for the Union Army! In 1863, she led this incredible raid on the Combahee River in South Carolina that freed over 700 slaves. That mission showed everyone what a powerhouse she was against slavery.

Post-War Activism

After the war ended, Tubman didn't just sit back and relax. Nope, she kept pushing for African American rights and women's suffrage too! She settled down in Auburn, New York, where she set up the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged—a safe spot for elderly African Americans. Plus, she worked alongside big names like Susan B. Anthony in the women's suffrage movement. Money was tight for her sometimes but that didn’t kill her spirit or drive for justice.

Legacy

Tubman's legacy is powerful because it speaks volumes about courage and commitment to equality. She’s been honored with monuments, museums—she’s even taught in schools! In 2016 they announced they'd put her face on the $20 bill—a big nod to how much she's shaped American history. Her story isn’t just something you read about—it inspires us all to stand strong against oppression.

Conclusion

If you think about it long enough (and you should), Harriet Tubman's life reads like an epic tale of bravery mixed with sacrifice—and let’s not forget pure determination! From being enslaved herself to steering others towards freedom through her work on the Underground Railroad or during wartime efforts—it’s clear why her impact matters so much today as we keep fighting against inequality everywhere we see it.

References:

• Sernett M.C., (2007). "Harriet Tubman: Myth." Syracuse University Press.
• Bordewich F.M., (2005). "Bound for Canaan: The Epic Story." Harper Collins Publishers.
• Larsen K.C., (2004). "Bound For The Promised Land: Harriet Tubman." Ballantine Books.
• Petry A., (1955). "Harriet Tubman: Conductor On The Underground Railroad." HarperCollins Publishers Inc.
• NPS.gov - Harriet Tubman National Historical Park information sheet.
• CivilWar.org - Biography article on Harriet Tubman's contributions during Civil War era.