Seeking Justice: The Astonishing Facts of Harriet Tubman’s Underground Railroad Affairs
When one considers the history of the Underground Railroad, the name Harriet Tubman immediately comes to mind. Born into slavery in the early 1820s, Harriet Tubman would become one of the foremost figures in the fight against the institution that had bound her and so many others in chains. But, while we are all familiar with Tubman’s bold and courageous actions, there are countless extraordinary aspects of her involvement with the Underground Railroad that remain both astonishing and inspiring. Let us delve into some of these lesser-known facts that showcase the true depths of Harriet Tubman’s heroic achievements.
A – Activist Extraordinaire
Harriet Tubman was born Araminta Ross, and at the age of seven, she was already laboring in the fields under the harsh servitude of slavery. Following years of persecution, she made the courageous decision to escape to freedom, setting out alone from her home in Maryland at night. Effectively earning her own liberty by 1849, Tubman would later return numerous times to help over 70 more slaves escape the shackles of bondage, becoming a renowned conductor on the Underground Railroad.
B – Bounties Yet Unyielding
It comes as no surprise that Tubman’s work did not come without personal risk. Despite her efforts to avoid detection, bounties were placed on her head, each estimated around $40,000, equivalent to approximately $1 million today. Harriet Tubman avoided recapture, despite the constant threat, relying on her tremendous wit and knowledge of the terrain.
C – Courage among the Canvas
Tubman and the Underground Railroad’s influence can be felt throughout the arts. Canadian author Edith Cook illustrates her heroic ventures in ‘The Underground Railroad: A Novel’ (Image). While fictional, Cook highlights Tubman’s daring escape and relentless pursuit of justice for her fellow enslaved people.
D – Disguises: Masks of Freedom
Harriet Tubman was a master of disguise, adopting numerous personas to outwit those who sought to bring her back into slavery. She was known to pose as an aged woman, a wealthy European lady, and even a slave seeking work. Tubman’s multiple identities enabled her to travel freely and avoid detection, as her captors would have never suspected that a powerful, free woman was in such disguises.
E – Emancipator of the Unknown
Perhaps the most astonishing fact about Tubman’s endeavors is that the exact number of enslaved people she personally guided to freedom remains unknown. Historical records suggest that Tubman masterminded around 19 separate missions to Maryland and helped to liberate approximately 70 slaves – but that number is purely speculative. The fact that no official tally of those she saved exists serves as a testament to the fear that people in the South held for anyone traversing their lands in the dark of night.
Now, we understand more about the life and work of Harriet Tubman, a server of justice, a beacon of hope, and an unstoppable force for freedom. Her astounding achievements have left an indelible mark on history, as we look to her extraordinary story as a source of inspiration.
FAQs:
1. Who was Harriet Tubman?
Harriet Tubman was an African-American abolitionist and anti-slavery activist born into slavery in the 1820s. After escaping slavery herself, she returned numerous times to help other enslaved people reach freedom on the Underground Railroad.
2. What is the Underground Railroad?
The Underground Railroad was a clandestine 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.
3. What were some of Harriet Tubman’s identities?
Harriet Tubman was known to adopt several disguises to avoid detection while operating the Underground Railroad. These included an older woman, a wealthy European lady, a free black woman, and even an enslaved person seeking employment.
4. How many people did Harriet Tubman free?
It is speculated that Harriet Tubman was directly involved in freeing around 70 enslaved people. However, the exact number remains unknown, due in part to the secrecy of the Underground Railroad’s operations.
5. Why is Harriet Tubman considered a hero?
Harriet Tubman is considered a hero for her tremendous courage and selflessness in helping others escape slavery via the Underground Railroad. Her actions have forever cemented her legacy as one of the most prominent figures in the fight against slavery.
In conclusion, Harriet Tubman’s unparalleled bravery and unwavering commitment to liberation have rightfully earned her a place of respect in the annals of history. Her inspirational life serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when we refuse to yield to injustice and when we stand for what’s right, despite the cost.
