Harriet Tubman

Definition

Harriet Tubman was an African American abolitionist, humanitarian, and Union spy during the American Civil War. She is best known for her role in leading enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad, a secret network of safe houses and routes that helped escapees flee from slavery in the Southern United States to free states and Canada.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Harriet Tubman escaped slavery in 1849, after which she made multiple trips back to the South to rescue other enslaved individuals.
2. She is estimated to have helped over 300 people gain their freedom through her work on the Underground Railroad.
3. During the Civil War, Tubman served as a spy and scout for the Union Army, using her knowledge of the land to assist in military operations.
4. In addition to her work in abolition, Tubman was an advocate for women's suffrage, pushing for equal rights for women after the Civil War.
5. Tubman's legacy is honored in numerous ways, including monuments, literature, and as a symbol of courage and resilience in the fight for freedom.

Review Questions

• How did Harriet Tubman's contributions to the Underground Railroad reflect broader themes of resistance against slavery?
  • Harriet Tubman's efforts on the Underground Railroad exemplified a significant form of resistance against the institution of slavery by actively defying oppressive systems. Her determination to return multiple times to help others escape illustrated her commitment to freedom and solidarity among enslaved people. By risking her life and using strategic planning, Tubman not only facilitated individual escapes but also inspired collective action among those seeking liberation.
• Discuss the impact of Harriet Tubman's role during the Civil War on both the Union Army's strategy and on the perception of African Americans' capabilities.
  • Harriet Tubman's involvement as a spy and scout for the Union Army showcased her strategic importance during the Civil War. Her intimate knowledge of Southern terrain enabled Union forces to gather intelligence that contributed to military successes. Furthermore, her active participation challenged prevailing stereotypes about African Americans at the time, demonstrating their capability and agency in contributing to critical wartime efforts, which influenced attitudes toward African Americans in society.
• Evaluate how Harriet Tubman's legacy has influenced contemporary movements for social justice and equality.
  • Harriet Tubman's legacy has significantly impacted contemporary social justice movements by serving as a symbol of resilience, courage, and activism in the fight for equality. Her life story continues to inspire activists who draw parallels between her struggles against slavery and modern-day challenges such as systemic racism and economic inequality. Organizations advocating for civil rights often reference her work as a reminder of the importance of grassroots movements and community organizing in achieving meaningful social change.

Related terms

Underground Railroad: A clandestine network of individuals and safe houses that provided assistance to enslaved people seeking freedom in the 19th century.

Abolitionism: The movement aimed at ending the institution of slavery and promoting equal rights for African Americans.

Civil War: A conflict between the Northern states (Union) and Southern states (Confederacy) from 1861 to 1865, primarily over issues related to slavery and states' rights.