Harriet Tubman Biography

harriet tubman biography

Harriet Tubman Biography

Harriet Tubman (c. 1822-1913) was an American abolitionist, humanitarian, and political activist. She is best known for her role as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to freedom in the North.

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Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland, but she escaped to freedom in Philadelphia in 1849. Over the next decade, she made numerous trips back to the South to help rescue her family members and other enslaved people, earning the nickname “Moses” for her leadership and bravery.

During the Civil War, Tubman served as a nurse, cook, and spy for the Union Army, and she played a significant role in the Combahee River Raid, a military operation that liberated more than 700 enslaved people in South Carolina.

After the war, Tubman continued her humanitarian work, advocating for women’s suffrage and the rights of African Americans. She also founded the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged, a home for elderly African Americans in need.

Tubman’s legacy has had a significant impact on American history and culture. She is celebrated for her courage, determination, and commitment to social justice, and her story has inspired generations of activists and advocates for civil rights.

How many slaves did Harriet Tubman free in total?

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The exact number of slaves Harriet Tubman helped to free is not known, as Tubman was very secretive about her activities and did not keep written records. However, it is estimated that she personally escorted around 70 slaves to freedom via the Underground Railroad, and she also assisted many more in escaping through other means. In addition, she provided guidance and support to countless others who were seeking their freedom.