.png){kind=small}
The Legacy of Harriet Tubman: A Journey from Slavery to Freedom
Harriet Tubman is a name one can relate with bravery, strength and an unwavering determination to gain freedom. Born into slavery, she rose above unimaginable hardships to become one of the most impactful persons in American history. Her story is not just one of survival and inspiration but of triumph and relentless pursuit of justice. Let's get to read her outstanding journey and learn how her courage and determination still continue to be a major and lifelong inspiration for everyone today.
Harriet Tubman was born on January 1822 in Dorchester County, Maryland. She was born into slavery on the Brodess plantation and so, her early years were filled with hardship and utmost challenges. Slavery was a brutal reality and Tubman's family faced constant challenges. As a child, Harriet experienced the harsh conditions of slavery firsthand and she was forced to work in the fields and suffered many physical abuses.
Though, Harriet had numerous difficulties in her life, she showed a fierce spirit and resilience. She married John Tubman in 1844 and changed her name to Harriet Tubman. That also did not prove of any good to her. Her marriage did not provide her with much comfort as the struggles of slavery persisted.
In 1849, Harriet Tubman made a remarkable decision. She escaped from the Brodess plantation, seeking freedom in the North. At that time, escaping slavery was extremely dangerous and difficult, with many challenges along the way. But nothing could stop Harriet as she travelled alone with the utmost risks of capture and return to slavery.
She used a network of safe houses and secret routes that helped slaves escape to freedom, which are collectively called the Underground Railroad. Tubman’s bravery and resourcefulness were evident as she navigated this dangerous journey. When she reached Philadelphia, she actually felt a deep sense of relief and freedom. However, her journey didn’t end there. Her experiences and her love for her family motivated her to return to the South, only to help others escape from the slavery-world and gain their freedom.
Harriet Tubman became one of the most renowned "conductors" on the Underground Railroad. She took the risk many times just to escape other slaves to freedom. Over the course of her missions, she made 13 trips back to the South and helped approximately 70 enslaved people escape. Tubman’s work was dangerous, as slaveholders put large rewards of money if anyone was able to capture her. Yet, she never feared of being captured and sent back to slavery and continued to help slaves escape.
She used to plan her journeys very strategically and with deep knowledge of the routes and safe houses. She used the North Star as a guide and relied on a network of trusted allies. Tubman’s courage was extraordinary; she often used to travel at night and used various methods to avoid being captured. It was her bravery and dedication that earned her the nickname "Moses" of her people, a reference to the biblical figure who led the Israelites out of Egypt.
During the American Civil War (1861-1865), Harriet Tubman’s work for freedom expanded. She served as a scout, spy and nurse for the Union Army. Tubman’s knowledge of the South and her experiences with the Underground Railroad made her an invaluable asset to the Union forces.
In 1863, Tubman also helped in leading an armed raid in South Carolina, which is also known as the Combahee River Raid. During this mission, she helped liberate more than 700 enslaved people. Her bravery in the face of danger was crucial in aiding the Union cause and changing the course of the war. Even after the Civil War, Harriet did not stop on her mission and continued to fight for freedom and equality. She became involved in various causes, including women's right to vote. Tubman worked alongside other prominent figures like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton to secure the right to vote for women.
In the later year of her life, she faced many challenges at personal front. Tubman faced financial difficulties and even health issues, but her determination was never shaken. She lived her final years in Auburn, New York, where she continued to advocate for social justice and supported the efforts of other activists. Harriet Tubman passed away on March 10, 1913, but her legacy endures. She is and will always be remembered as a symbol of freedom and courage. Her story is very inspiring and serves as a reminder of the human will and the impact of standing up for what is right.
Tubman’s contributions were recognized long after her death. In 2016, the U.S. Treasury announced that Tubman would replace Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill, a fitting tribute to her astonishing life. Her legacy also lives on through various memorials and educational programs dedicated to her life and achievements.
Harriet Tubman’s life offers many important lessons:
Courage in the Face of Adversity: Tubman’s bravery in escaping slavery and returning to rescue others teaches us the importance of facing our fears and standing up for what is right, even when it all seems impossible.
Determination and Persistence: Tubman’s persistent work on the Underground Railroad and her efforts during the Civil War show us that persistence and dedication can bring significant changes to the life of people at large.
Selflessness and Service: Tubman’s willingness to risk her life for the freedom of others highlights the power of selflessness and the impact of serving others with compassion and commitment.
Advocacy for Equality: Tubman’s involvement in the women’s suffrage movement highlights the importance of always raising your voice for equal rights and justice for all.
Harriet Tubman’s story is one of unparalleled courage and determination. From her early life in slavery to her role as a leader of the Underground Railroad and her contributions during the Civil War, Tubman’s life is a proof of the power of bravery and selflessness. Her journey reminds us that each of us has the power to make a difference, to stand up for what is right and to work towards the betterment of the people and create a world where everyone is treated equal and provided with equal rights.
Let us honour her legacy by carrying forward the values of courage, resilience and justice that she exemplified throughout her extraordinary life.
