Women you should know: Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman is an important and heroic figure in American history, and her legacy has inspired different people of all races and backgrounds. Not only was she the first woman in American history to lead an armed military operation, but she was also especially important in the abolitionist movement.
Tubman’s difficult upbringing significantly influenced her beliefs as an adult and her desire to make a difference. Additionally, the traumatic head injury she experienced as an adolescent contributed to not just headaches and sleeping spells for the rest of her life, but also dreams that she perceived to be religious visions or messages from God. These visions were one of the reasons she dedicated herself to helping people in need.
In 1849, when she was in her 20s, Tubman escaped from slavery after the death of her owner and after hearing rumors that she was about to be sold. She escaped to Philadelphia, leaving behind her husband and her family.
She soon became a conductor on the Underground Railroad, and she returned to the South several times in order to lead her family and other enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad was a secretive network of routes and places that provided help to those escaping to the North.
Tubman’s work put her freedom and safety in jeopardy on a regular basis. She had to avoid slave catchers and bounty hunters. The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 was also another danger, which made it illegal for people in the North to help enslaved people escape to freedom and created harsher punishments for those who were found helping.
Having Tubman’s life story documented for a widespread audience to watch can be impactful, and it can show why Tubman is worthy of attention. I watched the 2019 biographical movie Harriet in my Ethnic Studies class just a few weeks ago. It is a powerful and emotional film; it includes excellent acting and provides a look into the oppression that traumatized Black people in the past. While there are a few bits of fictional characters and moments in the film, I surely recommend watching it.
There is even a plan for Tubman’s image to replace Andrew Jackson’s on the $20 bill, though it is unknown when or if that will occur. Whether or not that happens, it is still important that we as U.S. citizens recognize Tubman’s contributions, bravery, and leadership.
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Harriet Tubman is truly an inspirational person. I liked that you included a very short, but descriptive biography of her, which really helps to fully describe the person she was. I also watched the movie Harriet in Ethnic Studies, and that movie really is powerful. I think, you, recommending that movie is very helpful for other people who want to learn about the motivating and inspirational person Harriet Tubman was.
ReplyDeleteI loved that you wrote about someone as strong and brave as Harriet Tubman. Her work in the Underground Railroad saved so many lives. Us females, and especially those of color, should be inspired by her. We can do big things and Harriet Tubman is a prime example of that. Loved your blog.
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