Harriet Tubman (Araminta Ross) Biography

Introduction

Harriet Tubman, born Araminta Ross, is a name synonymous with bravery and unyielding resolve in the face of adversity. Born into the brutal institution of slavery, Tubman's life is a testament to her relentless pursuit of freedom—not just for herself, but for countless others. This essay explores her remarkable journey, from her traumatic childhood experiences, through her audacious escapes, to her pivotal roles in the Underground Railroad and the Civil War, and finally, her advocacy for women's suffrage. Through examining these phases of her life, we can appreciate the profound impact she had on American history and the enduring legacy she left behind.

Early Life and Struggles

Harriet Tubman was born into slavery as Araminta Ross in Maryland. She changed her name to Harriet in honor of her mother, Harriet “Rit” Green, who served as a cook for the Brodess family. Her father, Benjamin Ross, was a timber worker owned by Anthony Thompson until his emancipation in 1840. Despite the harsh realities of slavery, Tubman's family instilled in her a sense of resilience and hope.

From the tender age of five, Harriet was hired out as a nursemaid, a position that subjected her to frequent beatings if her work was deemed unsatisfactory. These violent encounters left her with both physical scars and deep emotional wounds. Yet, even in her own suffering, she demonstrated remarkable compassion; once, she intervened to protect another slave from being struck with a heavy weight, an act that resulted in a severe head injury for herself. This injury caused recurring health issues, including episodes of somnolence, or sudden deep sleep, which plagued her throughout her life.

In 1844, Harriet married John Tubman, a free African American. However, their union was fraught with tension due to their differing views on escaping North. While John was content with his freedom, Harriet yearned for true liberation. Her husband even threatened to betray her if she attempted to flee. Undeterred by the risks, Harriet eventually decided to leave him behind, embarking on her first escape to Philadelphia in 1849. This marked the beginning of her lifelong mission to secure freedom for herself and others.

The Underground Railroad

Harriet's initial escape was not without its challenges. She and her two brothers fled their Maryland plantation, but her siblings, gripped by fear, chose to return. Alone, Harriet pressed on, traveling over 90 miles to reach Pennsylvania. Her solitary journey kindled a desire to rescue others from the bonds of slavery. Within two weeks, her owner, Eliza Brodess, reported her absence, and a $300 reward was offered for her capture.

Undaunted, Harriet began orchestrating daring rescues, using the clandestine network known as the Underground Railroad. She returned to the South multiple times, rescuing her niece and her niece's children among others, despite the increasing dangers posed by the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. This law allowed escaped and free slaves in the North to be captured and returned to slavery, complicating her missions.

Tubman's ingenious methods and indomitable spirit enabled her to lead approximately 300 slaves to freedom over 19 expeditions. She traveled under the cover of night, cleverly disguising herself to avoid detection. Her efforts earned her the nickname "Moses," symbolizing her role as a deliverer of her people. Tubman's work required immense courage, resourcefulness, and a network of allies, including prominent abolitionists, who supported her cause.

Contributions During the Civil War

When the Civil War erupted in 1861, Harriet Tubman expanded her role as a freedom fighter. She served as a nurse, spy, and cook for the Union Army, leveraging her intimate knowledge of Southern terrain to aid the Union’s cause. In 1863, she became the head of a Union Army espionage network, providing crucial intelligence on Confederate troop movements and supply lines.

Her contributions to the war effort were invaluable. Tubman's leadership during the Combahee River Raid in South Carolina, where she helped liberate over 700 slaves, underscored her strategic brilliance and unwavering commitment to freedom. Despite these significant achievements, she received little recognition or compensation from the government during her lifetime.

Advocacy for Women's Rights

After the Civil War, Harriet Tubman settled in Auburn, New York, where she continued her activism. She married Nelson Davis, a former slave, in 1869, and together they built a life grounded in their shared values of justice and equality. Tubman's dedication to social causes extended beyond abolitionism; she became a vocal advocate for women's suffrage.

Tubman worked alongside renowned suffragists such as Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, raising funds and awareness for the movement. Her speeches passionately argued for women's rights, emphasizing the interconnectedness of freedom and equality for all. Additionally, she participated in the National Association of Colored Women (NACWC), which addressed the specific challenges faced by African American women, who were often marginalized even within the broader women's suffrage movement.

Her advocacy efforts contributed to the eventual ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote. Tubman's legacy as a champion for justice and equality endures, inspiring generations to continue the fight for civil rights.

Conclusion

Harriet Tubman's life is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the relentless pursuit of justice. From her early struggles with slavery to her heroic acts on the Underground Railroad and her contributions to the Civil War and women's suffrage, her legacy of courage and determination continues to inspire. Tubman's indelible impact on American history is a reminder of the profound change one individual can effect through unwavering resolve and a commitment to the greater good. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for future generations to uphold the values of freedom and equality for all.

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