FAQ About Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist and political activist known for her significant role in the Underground Railroad, where she led many enslaved people to freedom prior to the Civil War. Tubman was born into slavery, but she escaped and subsequently made numerous missions to rescue others, defying the oppressive systems of her time.

Harriet Tubman served as a "conductor" on the Underground Railroad, a secret network of routes and safe houses that were used to help enslaved African Americans escape to free states and Canada. She is credited with making 13 trips and guiding approximately 70 enslaved people to freedom.

Harriet Tubman escaped from slavery in 1849, leaving behind her life on a Maryland plantation. She fled on foot over several nights, traveling nearly 90 miles to reach Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she found freedom. She used the North Star as a guide and received assistance from the Underground Railroad network.

In addition to her work with the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman served as a spy for the Union Army during the Civil War, organizing and leading armed raids that freed hundreds of enslaved people. She also worked as a nurse and cook in the Civil War, and later became involved in the women's suffrage movement.

Harriet Tubman was born Araminta Ross around 1822 in Dorchester County, Maryland. She was born into slavery and endured severe hardships from a young age, including physical violence. Despite these challenges, Tubman developed a strong sense of independence and a commitment to securing her freedom.

Harriet Tubman earned the nickname 'Moses' due to her leadership and guidance of enslaved people to freedom, reminiscent of the biblical figure Moses who led the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt. Her tireless efforts in leading enslaved individuals to safety through the Underground Railroad aligned with this legendary role.

Yes, Harriet Tubman played a significant role in the Civil War. She worked for the Union Army as a scout, spy, and nurse. Most notably, in 1863, she became the first woman to lead an armed expedition in the war during the Combahee River Raid, which liberated more than 700 enslaved people.

After the Civil War, Harriet Tubman became an active participant in the women's suffrage movement. She worked alongside prominent suffragists like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, advocating for women's right to vote and making speeches across the northeastern United States.

During the Civil War, Harriet Tubman served as a scout and spy for the Union Army. She used her knowledge of covert travel routes learned from the Underground Railroad to strategize military maneuvers and organize raids. Her guidance was crucial in the successful Combahee River Raid, which freed hundreds of enslaved individuals.

Harriet Tubman faced numerous challenges during her missions, including the constant threat of capture, as she had a high bounty on her head. Tubman also had to navigate harsh weather conditions, varied terrain, and the risk of betrayal. Despite these challenges, her courage and strategic planning helped her succeed in her missions.

Harriet Tubman had a profound impact on American history as a symbol of resistance against slavery and for her contributions to the abolitionist cause. Her actions directly led to the liberation of many enslaved individuals and provided a moral compass during a pivotal era in American history, influencing further civil rights movements.

Harriet Tubman is remembered as a national heroine and a symbol of courage and freedom. She has been honored in various ways, including by having schools, museums, and historical sites named after her. Her image has recently been proposed to appear on the redesigned $20 bill, highlighting her enduring legacy.

Harriet Tubman's story is significant for understanding the history of slavery in the United States because it highlights the brutality and inhumanity of the institution, as well as the resilience and bravery of those who fought against it. Her life is a testament to the power of individual action in challenging systemic oppression.

During the Combahee River Raid on June 2, 1863, Harriet Tubman alongside Colonel James Montgomery guided Union troops in a surprise attack on Confederate positions in South Carolina. The raid was a success, with more than 700 enslaved individuals liberated from plantations and disrupting Confederate supply lines.

Harriet Tubman's upbringing in slavery, marked by hardship and resistance, greatly influenced her later work. Her experiences with oppression fueled her determination to escape and help others do the same. Tubman's familiarity with the landscape and covert communication were crucial skills that aided her missions with the Underground Railroad.

Yes, Harriet Tubman's family members were enslaved. Her parents, Harriet "Rit" Green Ross and Benjamin Ross, and eight siblings were all held in bondage, which deeply impacted Tubman's resolve to gain freedom for herself and others. She made several attempts to bring family members to freedom through her efforts with the Underground Railroad.

Harriet Tubman contributed to the abolitionist movement by actively participating in the Underground Railroad, freeing numerous enslaved individuals and advocating for emancipation. She collaborated with fellow abolitionists, such as Frederick Douglass and John Brown, furthering the cause of ending slavery in the United States.

Harriet Tubman's motivation stemmed from her personal experiences with the brutality of slavery, her strong conviction in the right to freedom, and her deep sense of duty to her family and others in bondage. Tubman's faith and courage fueled her relentless pursuit to provide others the chance for freedom and a better life.

Harriet Tubman is buried at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn, New York. The cemetery is a historic site, and her grave is marked with a memorial plaque, honoring her as a leader and liberator.

Harriet Tubman's life and legacy are celebrated in various ways in modern times, including educational programs, documentaries, museums, and public monuments. Her story continues to inspire discussions on freedom, human rights, and justice. The proposal to place her likeness on the $20 bill reflects her enduring impact on American history.