Harriet Tubman

Definition

Harriet Tubman was an African American abolitionist and political activist who escaped from slavery and went on to lead hundreds of enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad. Her work not only highlighted the horrors of slavery but also contributed significantly to the abolitionist movement, as she became a symbol of resistance against oppression and a key figure in the struggle for African American rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland around 1822 and escaped in 1849, risking her life to secure freedom for herself.
2. She made approximately 13 missions back to the South, leading around 70 enslaved people to freedom, earning her the nickname 'Moses' for her leadership.
3. Tubman served as a spy and nurse during the Civil War, aiding the Union Army in their fight against the Confederacy.
4. She was an advocate for women's suffrage, speaking out for women's rights after the Civil War and participating in various reform movements.
5. Harriet Tubman's legacy continues to inspire generations in the fight for social justice and equality, reflecting her unwavering commitment to freedom.

Review Questions

• How did Harriet Tubman's actions contribute to the abolitionist movement and the fight against slavery?
  • Harriet Tubman's courageous actions significantly bolstered the abolitionist movement by providing tangible evidence of resistance against slavery. By leading dozens of enslaved individuals to freedom through the Underground Railroad, she showcased the possibility of escape and inspired others to join the fight against slavery. Tubman's ability to return repeatedly to the South despite great personal risk demonstrated her commitment to ending slavery and helped mobilize support for abolitionist causes.
• In what ways did Harriet Tubman challenge societal norms during her time, particularly regarding race and gender?
  • Harriet Tubman defied societal norms by taking on roles traditionally reserved for men, such as leading rescue missions through the Underground Railroad and serving as a military strategist during the Civil War. As a Black woman in a deeply racist and sexist society, her bravery and leadership challenged perceptions about race and gender capabilities. Tubman's activism extended beyond abolitionism as she became a powerful voice for women's suffrage, advocating for equal rights amid widespread discrimination.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Harriet Tubman's contributions on civil rights movements that followed her era.
  • Harriet Tubman's contributions laid foundational principles for subsequent civil rights movements by emphasizing empowerment through direct action and community solidarity. Her legacy inspired future generations of activists fighting for racial equality and justice, exemplified by leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. Additionally, Tubman's emphasis on freedom and resistance continues to resonate in contemporary discussions around social justice, showcasing her lasting influence on American history.

Related terms

Underground Railroad: A secret network of safe houses and routes used by enslaved people to escape to free states and Canada, with the help of abolitionists and allies.

Abolitionism: A movement aimed at ending slavery and promoting equal rights for all individuals, often involving significant activism and social reform.

Frederick Douglass:

An escaped slave who became a prominent abolitionist leader, writer, and orator, advocating for the rights of African Americans and women's suffrage.