Harriet Tubman: From Enslaved to Hero of the Underground Railroad

Harriet Tubman’s name resonates as a symbol of bravery, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to justice. Born into the brutal system of slavery, Tubman escaped to freedom and devoted her life to liberating others. Her extraordinary journey from enslavement to becoming a key conductor of the Underground Railroad, a Civil War hero, and a champion for equal rights is a tale of courage and determination that continues to inspire generations.

Early Life in Slavery

Harriet Tubman, born Araminta “Minty” Ross around 1822 in Dorchester County, Maryland, endured the harsh realities of slavery from birth. Her parents, Ben Ross and Harriet “Rit” Green, were enslaved, and their family lived under the constant threat of separation. Despite these challenges, young Minty grew up hearing stories of resilience and hope from her mother, who instilled in her the value of freedom.

Tubman’s childhood was marked by grueling labor. By the age of five, she was hired out to work as a nursemaid, enduring beatings and harsh treatment. As she grew older, she worked in fields, forests, and households, performing physically demanding tasks. A pivotal moment in her life came when an overseer struck her head with a heavy metal weight. The injury caused severe headaches, seizures, and visions that she would experience for the rest of her life. Tubman interpreted these visions as divine guidance, strengthening her faith and resolve.

The Escape to Freedom

In 1849, after enduring decades of enslavement, Tubman made a daring escape. Her owner’s death had placed her at risk of being sold, so she fled north, following the North Star and relying on a network of safe houses known as the Underground Railroad. Traveling mostly on foot and under the cover of night, she reached Philadelphia, a free city, where she experienced freedom for the first time.

But Tubman’s liberation was bittersweet. She could not bear the thought of her family and others remaining in bondage. Determined to help them, she returned to Maryland multiple times to lead them to freedom.

The Moses of Her People

Harriet Tubman quickly became a key conductor on the Underground Railroad. Over the course of approximately 13 missions, she guided around 70 enslaved people to freedom and provided instructions that helped many others escape. Her methods were ingenious and courageous. Tubman used songs as coded messages to signal danger or safety, and she carried a revolver to protect herself and those she was leading. She often said, “I never lost a passenger,” a testament to her meticulous planning and determination.

Her success earned her the nickname “Moses,” likening her to the biblical figure who led his people out of slavery. Tubman’s efforts placed her life in constant danger; a bounty for her capture grew to an astronomical amount. Yet, she pressed on, driven by her unwavering belief in freedom and equality.

Civil War Heroism

When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Tubman saw an opportunity to expand her fight against slavery. She joined the Union Army, initially serving as a cook and nurse. However, her skills and knowledge soon led her to more critical roles as a scout and spy.

One of her most remarkable contributions came in June 1863 during the Combahee River Raid in South Carolina. Tubman became the first woman to lead an armed assault in the war. Working alongside Colonel James Montgomery, she helped guide Union forces in a mission that freed over 700 enslaved people and disrupted Confederate supply lines. Tubman’s intelligence gathering and strategic insight were instrumental in the raid’s success.

Life After the War

After the Civil War, Tubman settled in Auburn, New York, on land purchased by abolitionist and politician William H. Seward. She continued to care for her family and devoted herself to humanitarian efforts. Tubman was a staunch advocate for women’s suffrage, working alongside prominent figures like Susan B. Anthony. She traveled extensively, speaking about her experiences and the importance of equal rights.

In her later years, Tubman established the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged, a facility dedicated to caring for elderly African Americans. Despite her contributions, Tubman struggled financially, often relying on donations to support her endeavors. Nevertheless, she remained committed to helping others until her death on March 10, 1913.

Legacy and Recognition

Harriet Tubman’s legacy is profound. She was a freedom fighter who risked her life to rescue others, a wartime hero who contributed significantly to the Union’s victory, and a tireless advocate for justice and equality. Her life continues to inspire movements for civil rights and social justice worldwide.

In recent years, efforts to honor Tubman’s legacy have gained momentum. Plans to feature her image on the U.S. $20 bill reflect her enduring significance in American history. In 2024, she was posthumously promoted to the rank of brigadier general in the Maryland National Guard, recognizing her invaluable contributions during the Civil War.

Lessons from Harriet Tubman’s Life

Harriet Tubman’s story offers timeless lessons:

1. Courage in the Face of Adversity: Despite the dangers, Tubman’s determination to free others never wavered.
2. Faith and Resilience: Her faith guided her through some of the darkest moments, giving her the strength to persevere.
3. The Power of One Individual: Tubman’s actions remind us that one person’s courage can ignite change for many.
4. Commitment to Justice: Her lifelong dedication to freedom and equality serves as an enduring call to action.

A Beacon of Freedom

Harriet Tubman’s journey from enslavement to becoming one of history’s most celebrated freedom fighters is nothing short of extraordinary. She not only changed the lives of those she rescued but also reshaped the course of history, proving that courage and compassion can overcome even the greatest injustices.

Through her relentless pursuit of freedom, Tubman taught the world that no obstacle is insurmountable and that the fight for justice is always worth it. Her life is a shining example of the transformative power of determination and the enduring impact of fighting for what is right.