Harriet Tubman is a name that stands for bravery, strength, and the fight for freedom. Born into slavery in the early 1820s, she became a hero for many enslaved people, helping over 300 of them find freedom through her work on the Underground Railroad. Let’s explore her amazing life, her role in ending slavery, and the lasting impact she left behind.
Harriet Tubman was born in Maryland, a place where slavery was allowed. Slavery was a cruel system that treated people as property, taking away their rights and dignity. Harriet, who was originally named Araminta and nicknamed “Minty,” faced the harshness of slavery from a young age. She worked as a servant and suffered mistreatment, including physical abuse that left her with scars for life.
When she was 12, Harriet was sent to work in the fields, where things got even tougher. One day, a heavy metal weight was thrown at her head, causing serious injuries. This led to seizures and pain that she endured for the rest of her life. Despite these hardships, Harriet developed a strong desire to be free.
Harriet was determined to escape slavery. After several attempts, she finally succeeded and fled to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a place where slavery was not allowed. Once free, she changed her name to Harriet, in honor of her mother. Instead of just enjoying her freedom, Harriet felt a deep responsibility to help others escape slavery too.
Harriet Tubman became a conductor on the Underground Railroad, a secret network of routes and safe houses that helped enslaved people escape to freedom in the North and Canada. Conductors like Harriet risked their lives to guide others to safety. She didn’t use maps; instead, she followed the North Star and used her knowledge of the night sky to lead people to freedom.
Throughout her life, Harriet helped more than 300 enslaved people escape, earning the nickname “Moses,” after the biblical leader who led his people to freedom. Amazingly, she never lost a single person she guided, and she always encouraged those who were scared to keep going.
Harriet’s dedication to freedom didn’t stop with the Underground Railroad. During the Civil War, she worked as a nurse and a spy for the Union Army. She gathered important information and even led a military raid that freed over 700 enslaved people in South Carolina. Her courage and cleverness made a big difference in the war efforts.
Besides fighting against slavery, Harriet Tubman also stood up for women’s rights. She believed in gender equality and fought for women’s right to vote. Harriet passed away in 1913, just seven years before women in the United States won the right to vote with the 19th Amendment.
Harriet Tubman’s legacy continues to inspire people all over the world. She has been honored with many monuments and statues, and it was announced that she would be featured on the twenty-dollar bill, showing her lasting impact on American history.
Her life story is a powerful reminder of the fight for freedom and equality. Harriet’s bravery, selflessness, and strong commitment to helping others continue to inspire those who work for justice and human rights today.
Harriet Tubman was not only a former slave who gained her own freedom but also a tireless advocate for the freedom of others. Her incredible life shows the power of resilience and the importance of standing up for what is right. As we remember her contributions, we are reminded of the ongoing struggle for equality and the need to honor the sacrifices made by those who came before us.
Starry Night Adventure: Harriet Tubman used the North Star to guide her to freedom. Go outside on a clear night with a parent or guardian and try to find the North Star. Use a star map or a stargazing app to help you. Imagine how Harriet might have felt looking up at the stars, and discuss with your family how the night sky can be a guide.
Freedom Path Game: Create a simple board game that represents the journey of escaping to freedom. Use a piece of cardboard and draw a path with different stops along the way. Include challenges like “cross the river” or “hide from danger,” and safe spots like “reach a safe house.” Play the game with friends or family and discuss the risks and bravery involved in Harriet’s journey.
Bravery Journal: Harriet Tubman showed incredible bravery throughout her life. Start a bravery journal where you write or draw about times when you or someone you know showed bravery. Think about small acts of courage you can do in your daily life, like standing up for a friend or trying something new. Share your journal with your class or family to inspire others.
