She helped 70 people escape slavery

#history #harriettubman #inspirational #motivational
Harriet Tubman (c. 1822 – March 10, 1913) was an African American abolitionist and humanitarian who played a pivotal role in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to freedom in the North or Canada. She is widely regarded as one of the most courageous and effective conductors of the Underground Railroad.

Here are some key points about Harriet Tubman's life and contributions:

1. **Early Life in Slavery**: Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland, around 1822. Her birth name was Araminta Ross. She endured the harsh conditions of slavery, including physical abuse and separation from her family.

2. **Escape to Freedom**: In 1849, Tubman escaped from slavery, making her way to Philadelphia. She later said that she had received guidance from God to embark on this dangerous journey.

3. **Conductor on the Underground Railroad**: Tubman made numerous trips back to the South to lead enslaved people to freedom. She used a network of safe houses and her deep knowledge of the landscape to navigate and avoid capture.

4. **Rescue Missions**: During her journeys, Tubman helped around 70 enslaved individuals escape to freedom, often at great personal risk. She was known for her bravery and determination.

5. **Civil War Service**: During the American Civil War (1861-1865), Tubman worked as a nurse, cook, and spy for the Union Army. She also helped recruit African American soldiers.

6. **Suffrage Activism**: After the Civil War, Tubman became involved in the suffrage movement, advocating for women's right to vote alongside figures like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

7. **Later Life and Legacy**: Tubman spent her later years in Auburn, New York, where she lived in poverty but remained active in her community. She died on March 10, 1913.

8. **Recognition**: Harriet Tubman is celebrated as an American hero and an icon of the struggle for freedom and equality. In 2020, it was announced that she would be the new face of the U.S. $20 bill, becoming the first African American to appear on U.S. currency.

Harriet Tubman's life and legacy are a testament to her incredible bravery, resilience, and commitment to justice. She risked her life repeatedly to help others escape the horrors of slavery and played a significant role in the fight for civil rights and equality in the United States.