Harriet Tubman Childhood

Harriet Tubman, an emblematic figure in the struggle for freedom and equality, is celebrated for her indomitable spirit and heroic actions leading enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad. Yet, the roots of her remarkable resilience and fierce determination are often traced back to the influence of her parents, Harriet "Rit" Green and Ben Ross. Their lives, steeped in the harsh realities of slavery in the early 19th century on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, provide a poignant backdrop to the story of one of America’s most revered freedom fighters.

Rit Green, Tubman’s mother, was enslaved by Mary Pattison Brodess (and later her son Edward), while Ben Ross, Tubman’s father, was enslaved by Anthony Thompson, who eventually became Edward Brodess’s stepfather, intertwining the families through the complex social and economic networks of slavery. Despite the oppressive conditions of their enslavement, both Rit and Ben nurtured a family, instilling in their children values of dignity, self-worth, and an unyielding desire for freedom.

Rit, known for her strength and protective nature, played a particularly pivotal role in shaping Harriet's character. In one documented instance, Rit fiercely confronted Edward Brodess as he attempted to sell one of her daughters, vehemently declaring her refusal to be separated from her children. This act of maternal defiance, though dangerous, underscored the depth of her resolve to keep her family together against the dehumanizing forces of slavery. It was from Rit that Tubman inherited a fierce determination to fight for justice and family unity.

Ben Ross, on the other hand, was known for his skills as a woodsman, which were highly valued by Thompson. He was eventually granted his freedom at the age of 45, though the freedom of his family remained an elusive dream. Ben's knowledge of the land and natural resources, coupled with his experience navigating the local geography, were skills that Harriet later utilized in her missions on the Underground Railroad. From her father, Tubman learned the practical skills of survival and navigation, but more importantly, she inherited a quiet strength and an intimate understanding of the Eastern Shore's landscapes, both of which would prove invaluable in her later endeavors.

The legacy of Tubman’s parents extends beyond their survival and resistance within the institution of slavery; it is evident in the spirit of their most famous daughter, who not only escaped slavery herself but also returned to the South at least 19 times, leading over 300 enslaved people to freedom. The courage and determination that Tubman displayed were not just innate traits but were also cultivated by the examples set by Rit and Ben. Their influence is a testament to the power of parental love and guidance in the face of systemic oppression.

Reflecting on the lives of Harriet Tubman’s parents offers valuable insights into the familial bonds that sustained the spirit of resistance and liberation among enslaved African Americans. Rit and Ben’s story is a poignant reminder of the human desire for freedom and the profound influence that parents have in shaping the destinies of their children. Through the legacy of their strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to family, they contributed to the forging of one of the most iconic figures in American history.

In essence, the narrative of Harriet Tubman's life is deeply intertwined with that of her parents. Their experiences of hardship, resilience, and resistance against the injustices of slavery set the stage for Tubman's historic contributions to the fight for freedom. By understanding the lives of Rit and Ben, we gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring strength and courage that fueled Tubman’s mission, underscoring the importance of familial legacy in the broader context of the struggle for justice and equality.

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