Harriet Tubman: The Moses of Her People

Introduction

Harriet Tubman remains one of the most iconic figures in American history, known for her unparalleled courage and relentless pursuit of freedom for herself and others. Born into bondage, Tubman escaped the shackles of slavery and subsequently dedicated her life to the liberation of others through the Underground Railroad. This essay will outline Tubman's early life, her daring escape, her substantial contributions to the Underground Railroad, and her enduring legacy.

Early Life

Harriet Tubman was born Araminta Ross in Dorchester County, Maryland, around 1822. Her parents, Harriet Green and Ben Ross, were enslaved, and Tubman herself faced the harsh realities of slavery from a young age. She was subjected to brutal working conditions and physical violence, experiences that would shape her resolve to seek freedom. Despite her illiteracy, Tubman possessed an intrinsic intelligence and spiritual conviction that fueled her aspirations for liberation.

Escape from Slavery

In 1849, Tubman made the courageous decision to escape from slavery. Utilizing the North Star and the covert network of abolitionists known as the Underground Railroad, she embarked on a perilous journey to freedom. Tubman successfully reached Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she found work and began to plan missions to rescue other enslaved people. Her own escape marked the beginning of her life-long commitment to the abolitionist cause.

The Underground Railroad

Tubman became a prominent "conductor" on the Underground Railroad, a secret network of safe houses and routes that helped enslaved individuals escape to free states and Canada. Over approximately a decade, Tubman led around 13 expeditions into the South, rescuing around 70 enslaved people, including family members and friends. She employed various strategies, such as traveling by night and using coded songs to communicate. Tubman's deep faith and intuition often guided her, earning her the nickname "Moses," in reference to the biblical figure who led his people to freedom.

Contribution to the Civil War Effort

During the American Civil War, Tubman's commitment to freedom extended beyond the Underground Railroad. She served as a nurse, cook, and spy for the Union Army. Tubman's most notable military contribution came in 1863 when she led a raid on the Combahee River in South Carolina, which resulted in the liberation of more than 700 enslaved people. This successful mission further solidified her status as a formidable figure in the fight against slavery.

Post-War Activism

Following the Civil War, Tubman continued to advocate for the rights of African Americans and women. She settled in Auburn, New York, where she established the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged, a sanctuary for elderly African Americans. Tubman also participated in the women's suffrage movement, working alongside notable figures like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Although she faced financial difficulties, Tubman's resilience and dedication to social justice never wavered.

Legacy

Harriet Tubman's legacy endures as a testament to her extraordinary courage and unwavering commitment to freedom and equality. She has been commemorated in various forms, including monuments, museums, and educational curricula. In 2016, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that Tubman would be featured on the $20 bill, a symbolic recognition of her profound impact on American history. Tubman's life story continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the enduring power of courage, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

Conclusion

Harriet Tubman's life is a remarkable narrative of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. From her early years in bondage to her instrumental role in the Underground Railroad and her contributions to the Civil War effort, Tubman's legacy is one of profound importance. Her story serves as an enduring inspiration, highlighting the power of individual resolve in the face of systemic oppression. As we reflect on Tubman's life and achievements, we are reminded of the enduring impact of her contributions to the fight for freedom and equality.