From Slavery to Hero - Harriet Tubman

Notes

• Harriet Tubman was born in 1822 in Maryland, and her life was marked by hardship and triumph. As a conductor on the Underground Railroad, she led hundreds to freedom, earning her the nickname "Moses." Her bravery extended to serving as a nurse and spy during the Civil War, and later, she became a vocal advocate for women's rights.
• Tubman's contributions to American society extend beyond her role as an abolitionist. Her life typifies the struggle for freedom and equality in a time of oppression and division. Her relentless pursuit of justice continues to inspire activists today, cementing her place as one of America's most revered heroes.
• The turning point in Tubman's life as a slave came in 1849 when she decided to escape. The death of her owner, along with the impending sale of family members, created a sense of urgency. Tubman's journey to freedom was fraught with danger. Utilizing a network of safe houses known as the Underground Railroad, she navigated her way to Philadelphia. Her escape was a harrowing ordeal, marked by close calls and relentless pursuit by slave catchers. The triumphant moment of Tubman's escape did not mark the end of her connection to slavery but rather the beginning of her life's mission. Her first taste of freedom only deepened her resolve to liberate others. The empathy and understanding she developed during her life as a slave fueled her passion and commitment to the abolitionist cause.
• The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses established in the United States during the early-to-mid 19th century. It was used by enslaved African Americans to escape into free states and Canada. The system was neither "underground" nor a "railroad" but rather a series of covert paths and shelters, often facilitated by abolitionists and sympathetic allies.
• Harriet Tubman became one of the most famous "conductors" on the Underground Railroad, leading approximately 70 slaves to freedom across 19 daring missions. Her intimate knowledge of the local terrain and her unyielding courage made her incredibly effective in this role. Tubman became known as "Moses," leading her people to freedom, and her reputation grew with each successful mission.
• Harriet Tubman's life is a timeless testament to the power of one individual to change the world, a lesson in humanity that will continue to inspire for generations to come. Her legacy stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the possibilities that lie within our reach when we dare to fight for what is right. Harriet Tubman was truly a woman who made a difference.