Discovering Harriet Tubman’s Incredible Background Story
Harriet Tubman is a name that most of us have heard of. She was a brave fighter who worked tirelessly to free slaves through the Underground Railroad. She was also a spy, a nurse, and an activist. But there is so much more to her story than we typically hear in history classes. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the life, struggles, and achievements of Harriet Tubman.
Early Life and Struggles
Harriet Tubman was born in Maryland around 1822 as a slave and named Araminta Ross. She had a harsh upbringing, working in the fields from an early age and experiencing brutal physical abuse at the hands of her owners. However, she was a quick learner and at the age of 5 was rented out as a nursemaid to a slaveowner family who taught her how to read and write.
At the age of 13, Tubman suffered a head injury after she refused to help an overseer in capturing a runaway slave. This injury caused her to have seizures, headaches and vivid dreams for the rest of her life.
Escape from Slavery and Work in the Abolitionist Movement
In the early 1840s, Tubman escaped from slavery with the help of the Underground Railroad. From there, she worked as a conductor for the same network, making at least 13 trips back into the south to rescue around 70 enslaved people. Her bravery and resourcefulness helped save countless lives and earned her the nickname “Moses.”
Tubman also worked as a spy and nurse for the Union army during the Civil War, becoming the first woman to lead an armed expedition during the war. After the war, she continued her work as an activist, fighting for women’s suffrage and helping to establish homes and hospitals for poor and elderly black people.
Legacy and Impact
Harriet Tubman’s life and work had an immeasurable impact on American society. She was a hero to enslaved people and abolitionists alike during her lifetime, and her name has become synonymous with courage, resilience, and strength. In 2020, she was named as the new face of the U.S. $20 bill, replacing Andrew Jackson. This recognition is just one example of the ways in which Tubman’s legacy continues to inspire people today.
In conclusion, Harriet Tubman’s story is one of hardship, bravery, and perseverance. Her life and work are a testament to the power of individual action, and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is hope for a brighter future. We can all learn from her example, and strive to make the world a better place, just as she did.
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