Harriet Tubman: The Symbol of Courage and Freedom

Harriet Tubman, also known as “Moses” in the Underground Railroad, is an iconic figure in American history. Her bravery, determination, and selflessness have made her one of the most prominent and celebrated figures in the fight against slavery. Born into slavery in Maryland in the early 1820s, Harriet Tubman became an abolitionist, a humanitarian, and an instrumental figure in the Underground Railroad movement. But why is she famous? Let’s delve into the life of Harriet Tubman and explore the reasons behind her enduring fame.

The Early Life of Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman was born Araminta Ross into slavery on a plantation in Dorchester County, Maryland. She was one of nine children, and her parents, Harriet (known as Rit) and Ben Ross, were both enslaved. Growing up as a slave, she endured physical and emotional abuse, including being struck in the head with a heavy metal weight, resulting in a lifelong struggle with headaches, seizures, and narcolepsy.

As a young adult, Harriet married a free man named John Tubman, but her marriage was not recognized by the slave owner, and she remained enslaved. Determined to escape the life of slavery, Harriet fled from the plantation in 1849, leaving behind her husband and family. This was the beginning of her journey towards freedom and her fight against slavery.

The Underground Railroad

After escaping from slavery, Harriet Tubman made her way to Philadelphia, where she was able to live and work as a free woman. But she never forgot about her family and the countless others who were still suffering under the chains of slavery. She risked her own safety and freedom to become a conductor in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses that helped enslaved Black people escape to freedom.

Harriet made several trips back to Maryland, rescuing family members and other enslaved individuals, guiding them through the dangerous journey to the North and Canada. Her courage and determination in leading more than 300 enslaved individuals to freedom earned her the nickname “Moses” and cemented her place in history.

The Civil War and Beyond

When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Harriet became an active participant in the fight for freedom. She worked as a cook, nurse, and spy for the Union army, providing invaluable intelligence and assistance to the soldiers. She was also the first woman ever to lead an armed expedition during the war, guiding a group of Union soldiers on a raid in South Carolina.

After the Civil War ended and slavery was abolished, Harriet continued her humanitarian work. She established a home for the elderly and indigent and advocated for women’s suffrage. She also worked tirelessly for the rights of freed slaves and for the education of young Black children. Harriet Tubman’s legacy of courage, strength, and selflessness continued long after the end of the Civil War.

The Enduring Legacy of Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman’s unwavering dedication to the fight against slavery and her bravery in the face of danger have made her one of the most iconic and revered figures in American history. Her accomplishments were recognized during her lifetime, and she received accolades from leaders and activists, including Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony.

Today, Harriet Tubman continues to be celebrated and honored for her contributions to the fight for freedom and equality. She has been inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame, and her face is featured on a commemorative stamp and the new $20 bill. Her story has also been immortalized in books, movies, and plays, ensuring that her legacy will live on for generations to come.

In conclusion, Harriet Tubman’s fame and enduring legacy can be attributed to her courage, determination, and selflessness in the face of adversity. She risked everything to help others and became a symbol of hope for those who were suffering under the chains of slavery. Her story serves as a reminder of the power of human perseverance and the enduring fight for freedom and equality.

For more information on inspiring historical figures like Harriet Tubman, check out WhyIsExplained.com. You can also explore other relevant topics and questions on our site, such as “What was the Underground Railroad?” and “How did slavery end in the United States?” Let’s continue to learn and educate ourselves about the important events and people that have shaped our world.