BLACK HISTORY MONTH: Seven Days of Black Heroes – Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman in 1911, Photo: Unknown author -US  Library of Congress

The infamous woman named “Moses”, who epitomizes the word hero, serves as our inspiration on Day six.

Harriet Tubman, originally named Araminta Ross, was a prominent figure in American history, celebrated for her indomitable spirit as an abolitionist and social activist. Born into slavery around March 1822 in Dorchester County, Maryland, Tubman endured the harsh realities of bondage from an early age, suffering physical abuse at the hands of enslavers. One particularly traumatic incident left her with a severe head injury, resulting in lifelong symptoms of dizziness, pain, and hypersomnia. Despite the adversity she faced, Tubman’s unwavering faith fueled her determination to seek freedom and fight for the rights of others.

In 1849, Tubman courageously escaped to Philadelphia, only to return to Maryland soon after to rescue her family and friends from enslavement. Risking her life with each mission, she utilized the Underground Railroad, a network of antislavery activists and safe houses, to guide approximately 70 individuals to freedom. Dubbed “Moses” for her fearless leadership, Tubman conducted her operations with meticulous secrecy, ensuring the safety of those she led to liberation. Even after the passage of the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, which intensified risks for escaped slaves, Tubman continued her efforts, assisting many in finding refuge in Canada.

As tensions escalated with the onset of the American Civil War, Tubman shifted her focus to aiding the Union Army. Initially serving as a cook and nurse, she later became an invaluable asset as an armed scout and spy. Notably, her leadership during the raid at Combahee Ferry led to the liberation of over 700 enslaved individuals, where, using her intelligence information, she and Col. Montgomery successfully navigated the Confederate mines placed in the Combahee River. This victory solidified her place in history as the first woman to lead an armed military operation in the United States. Post-war, Tubman retired to Auburn, New York, where she cared for her elderly parents and remained actively engaged in the women’s suffrage movement.

Tubman continues to inspire generations with her unwavering commitment to justice and equality. She became an enduring symbol of courage and freedom, revered for her remarkable achievements in the face of adversity. Ultimately, Tubman’s legacy transcends her own lifetime, serving as an example of fearlessness, and the flawless execution of organized resistance.

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5 Comments

  1. Jem a Woman
    February 28, 2024

    I’m wondering, how come pope Francis or any other pope never made her a Saint? How about movah Teresa? Harriet Tubman did more for the human race than most. And by the way, the house she lived in is still standing and cared for.

    • Gone Are The Days
      March 2, 2024

      Harriet Tubman was/is above those murd*r*rs, she saved many people from them as they represent evil. Do not think what they do to people was/is good. I can tell how passionate you wrote this, I was brainwashed by them too and used to think the same until I simply “think” about it, then research found out it was them, the vatican, Jesuit priests and missionaries that enslaved her continent and people using their white Jesus concept to wipe out Harriet’s African Spirituality System and people. Read 📚 from your own ancestors such as Dr. John Henrik Clarke and others on this evil.

  2. Roger Burnett
    February 27, 2024

    For its inspirational content, this series deserves to run for 365 days.

    I am sure that many of us could suggest hundreds of other heroes worthy of mention.

    Hot debate. What do you think? Thumb up 5 Thumb down 7
    • Yzop
      February 28, 2024

      How about a certain Roosevelt Skerrit?

    • We Know Better
      February 28, 2024

      ah whatever, we got this.

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