Harriet Tubman escaped slavery on September 17, 1849. Facing the threat of being sold, she left her life in Maryland, initiating a dangerous 90-mile trek to freedom in Pennsylvania. Despite emotional challenges, she ventured alone, showing remarkable bravery and resourcefulness under the constant threat of capture. This escape marked the start of her crucial role in the Underground Railroad, helping many gain their freedom.
Read on to learn how her voyage became a symbol of courage and justice.
Key Points
- Harriet Tubman’s Escape – On September 17, 1849, Tubman escaped slavery in Maryland, embarking on a dangerous 90-mile journey to freedom in Pennsylvania.
- Early Life and Hardships – Born into slavery in 1822, Tubman endured harsh labor, a severe head injury, and the constant threat of being sold before deciding to flee.
- The Perilous Journey North – Using the Underground Railroad, Tubman navigated her way to freedom, evading capture with strategic planning and perseverance.
- Becoming a Conductor – After escaping, she risked her life to return at least 13 times, rescuing around 70 enslaved individuals and earning the nickname “Moses.”
- Enduring Legacy – Tubman’s courage fueled the abolitionist movement, played a key role in the Civil War, and continues to inspire the fight for justice today.
Early Life and Background
Harriet Tubman’s early life was marked by hardship and resilience. Born as Araminta Ross around March 1822 in Dorchester County, Maryland, Harriet faced the harsh realities of being enslaved from a young stage. By five or six, she was already working as a house servant, and by twelve, she toiled in the fields. A brutal head injury from an overseer left her with lifelong health issues.
Despite these challenges, Tubman married John Tubman, a free Black man, in 1844, which further complicated her life under slavery. The financial troubles of her enslaver threatened to sell her, amplifying her yearning for freedom. Harriet Tubman was determined to escape, seeking a life unshackled by the chains of slavery.
The Decision to Escape
Faced with the looming threat of being sold by her enslaver, Edward Brodess, Tubman made the resolute decision to escape in 1849. Her decision wasn’t taken lightly; it meant leaving her family behind, yet it was necessary for her survival. Her traumatic head injury, suffered earlier in life, had diminished her value as a slave, heightening her fears of being separated from her loved ones. She initially planned to escape with her brothers, Ben and Henry, but their fear led them to turn back.
Undeterred, Tubman forged ahead alone, leaving Maryland for Pennsylvania. With the guidance of the Underground Railroad, she found freedom. Tubman’s bravery didn’t stop there; she returned to rescue around 70 others, including family, leading them to freedom.
The Journey North
Escaping under the cover of night, Tubman set out on a perilous expedition to the North, driven by the urgent need for freedom. Harriet Tubman’s escape from slavery began in Maryland on September 17, 1849.
Her voyage to Philadelphia was fraught with danger, as she utilized the Underground Railroad to traverse nearly 90 miles to freedom. Despite the $100 bounty on her head, Tubman’s resourcefulness and strategic planning guaranteed her success. She often initiated her travels on Saturday nights, cleverly evading capture and the threat of slave catchers.
Known as “Moses” for her courage, Tubman’s relentless pursuit of freedom not only secured her own escape but also laid the groundwork for her future missions to liberate others.
Becoming a Conductor on the Underground Railroad
After reaching the safety of Philadelphia, Tubman didn’t rest; she transformed into a fearless conductor on the Underground Railroad. Harriet Tubman, having escaped slavery, committed to guiding others toward freedom. Her bravery inspired countless individuals. She used her deep knowledge of geography and abolitionist networks to navigate treacherous paths. Tubman made at least 13 daring trips back to Maryland, determined to rescue family and friends.
You can imagine the courage it took for Tubman to:
- Risk her life repeatedly to lead approximately 70 enslaved individuals to freedom.
- Defy the odds as a woman in a perilous role.
- Earn the nickname “Moses” for her leadership.
- Take an oath of silence to protect the secrets of fellow abolitionists.
Legacy and Impact
Harriet Tubman’s extraordinary journey as a conductor on the Underground Railroad laid the foundation for a legacy that continues to inspire generations. Her fearless leadership not only freed around 70 enslaved individuals but also ignited hope in countless others. Known as “Moses,” Tubman became a symbol of resistance, strengthening the abolitionist movement with her unwavering determination.
During the Civil War, she demonstrated remarkable courage, particularly in the Combahee River Raid, where she played a pivotal role in liberating over 700 enslaved people. Tubman’s resilience and commitment to justice didn’t just change lives; they sparked a lasting spirit of activism that endures today.
Her legacy challenges us to embrace courage and fight for civil rights, proving that one person’s actions can create profound change. Similarly, the Mabo Case transformed land ownership laws in Australia, highlighting how legal victories can shape the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.