Harriet Tubman was a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to fighting for the freedom and rights of black people in America. Born into slavery in Maryland on March 6, 1820, she escaped slavery in 1849 and went on to become a leading abolitionist, suffragist, and civil rights activist.  Tubman’s life story is both inspiring and tragic. As a slave, she endured countless abuses and witnessed the horrors of slavery firsthand. Despite this, she never lost her courage, her determination, or her faith in the cause of freedom. Her escape from slavery was just the beginning of a lifelong mission to help others gain their freedom as well.

In her own words, Tubman once said, “I never ran my train off the track, and I never lost a passenger.” This statement speaks to her unwavering commitment to her cause, and her steadfast determination to help others in need.

One of Tubman’s most notable accomplishments was her work with the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by slaves to escape to freedom. Tubman herself made over 13 missions to rescue approximately 70 enslaved people, including her own family members. She also provided crucial support to others who were working to help slaves escape, such as the abolitionist John Brown.  Historian Kate Clifford Larson notes that Tubman’s work with the Underground Railroad was nothing short of heroic. She writes, “Tubman’s work during the Civil War was nothing short of heroic, serving as a nurse, cook, and spy for the Union Army. But her work leading enslaved people to freedom was her greatest achievement, her legacy.”

Despite her incredible accomplishments, Tubman faced immense challenges throughout her life. She suffered from debilitating health issues, including seizures and headaches, as a result of injuries sustained during her time as a slave. She also struggled financially, and even in her later years was forced to rely on the kindness of others to support herself.  Despite these challenges, Tubman remained committed to her cause until the very end of her life. In her later years, she became involved in the suffrage movement, working alongside other activists to fight for women’s right to vote. Her commitment to this cause was driven by her belief that all people, regardless of race or gender, deserved to be free and equal.

Author Catherine Clinton notes that Tubman’s impact on American history is immeasurable. She writes, “Harriet Tubman is one of the greatest Americans who ever lived. Her impact on our nation is immeasurable, and her legacy continues to inspire and guide us today.”  Indeed, Tubman’s legacy has inspired countless people around the world, including activists and leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. Her courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom have made her a true hero, and her story serves as a reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome even the greatest of challenges.

As Tubman once said, “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” Her words continue to inspire us today, and her story serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and equality for all.  In 1909, The Pittsburgh Gazette described Tubman as “the only woman who served unattached through the entire war as a scout, spy, and army nurse. She took her life in her hands many times and for services obtained a pension from Congress a number of years ago. She is proud of the fact that she wore trousers for a time and carried musket, canteen, and haversack.” 

Harriet Tubman was a remarkable woman whose legacy continues to inspire us today. Her work with the Underground Railroad, her commitment to the suffrage movement, and her unwavering determination in the face of adversity have made her a true hero and a symbol of hope for generations to come. As we remember her life and legacy, let us be inspired to continue her work and fight for a more just and equal world. On March 10, 1913, the prolific abolitionist and Underground Railroad conductor, known to many as the “Moses of her people,” passed away in Auburn, New York.  Before her death she told friends and family surrounding her death bed “I go to prepare a place for you”. Tubman was buried with military honors in the Auburn’s Fort Hill Cemetery.