Harriet Tubman: A Life of Courage and Resilience

Full Name and Common Aliases

Harriet Tubman was born Araminta Ross in Dorchester County, Maryland, around 1822. She is often referred to as "Moses" due to her efforts to lead enslaved individuals to freedom.

Birth and Death Dates

Tubman's birthdate is estimated to be between 1815 and 1822, while her death date is confirmed as March 10, 1913.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist, humanitarian, and suffragist. Her life's work spanned multiple professions, including:

Conductor on the Underground Railroad: Guiding hundreds of enslaved individuals to freedom in the Northern states
Nurse and Caregiver: Providing medical aid and support during the Civil War
Spies and Scout: Working with Union forces to gather intelligence on Confederate positions

Early Life and Background

Araminta Ross was born into slavery, the fifth of nine children. Her early life was marked by physical and emotional abuse at the hands of her enslavers. Around 1844, she married John Tubman, a free black man, but remained enslaved due to laws preventing marriage between free and enslaved individuals.

Major Accomplishments

Tubman's most notable accomplishments include:

Leading hundreds to freedom: Between 1850 and 1860, Harriet Tubman made multiple trips along the Underground Railroad, guiding approximately 70-80 enslaved individuals each time. Her network of allies and routes allowed her to evade capture for nearly a decade.
Union Army involvement: In 1861, Tubman joined the Union Army as a nurse, cook, and spy. She was the first woman to serve in the Union Army during the Civil War.
Confronting Confederate forces: Tubman's bravery and intelligence helped her gather crucial information on Confederate positions. Her efforts contributed significantly to the Union victory at the Battle of Combahee River.

Notable Works or Actions

Some notable works and actions associated with Harriet Tubman include:

Autobiography: Although incomplete, Tubman worked on an autobiography detailing her life experiences. Unfortunately, only a few pages remain.
Songs and poetry: As a means to pass on information and keep spirits high, Tubman composed songs and poems that would become part of African American folklore.

Impact and Legacy

Harriet Tubman's impact is multifaceted:

Abolitionism: Her work directly contributed to the abolition of slavery in the United States.
Women's suffrage: As a woman who fought tirelessly for her own freedom and rights, Tubman was an early advocate for women's suffrage.
Civil Rights Movement: Her courage and perseverance have inspired generations of civil rights activists.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Harriet Tubman is widely quoted and remembered due to her remarkable life story:

Unwavering dedication: Throughout her life, Tubman demonstrated unwavering commitment to fighting for freedom and equality.
Bravery in the face of danger: Her courage in confronting slavery and Confederate forces has become legendary.
Inspiring resilience: Harriet Tubman's determination and perseverance continue to inspire individuals worldwide.