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Queen of the Hurricanes: The Incredible Story of Harriet Tubman

Benji Powell

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Published in Queen Of The Hurricanes: The Fearless Elsie MacGill (A Feminist History Society Book)

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Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist and political activist. Born into slavery in Maryland, she escaped to freedom in 1849 and became a leading figure in the Underground Railroad, helping over 300 slaves escape to freedom. She also fought for the Union Army during the Civil War, and after the war, she continued to work for the rights of African Americans.

Queen of the Hurricanes: The Fearless Elsie MacGill (A Feminist History Society Book)

by John Glatt

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Language	:	English
File size	:	10460 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	313 pages

Early Life

Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Dorchester County, Maryland, on March 10, 1822. Her parents, Benjamin and Harriet Ross, were slaves owned by Edward Brodess, a wealthy plantation owner. Tubman was one of nine children, and she had a difficult childhood. She was often beaten and whipped, and she was forced to work long hours in the fields.

Despite the hardships she faced, Tubman was a strong and determined child. She was also very intelligent, and she learned to read and write at a young age. In 1844, she married a free black man named John Tubman. The couple lived together for several years, but their marriage was not happy. John Tubman was abusive, and he often beat Harriet.

Escape to Freedom

In 1849, Tubman decided to escape from slavery. She had heard about the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses that helped slaves escape to freedom. Tubman contacted a conductor on the Underground Railroad, and she made plans to escape. On September 17, 1849, Tubman and two other slaves escaped from the Brodess plantation. They traveled by night, hiding in forests and swamps. During the day, they rested in safe houses. After a long and dangerous journey, Tubman and her companions reached Philadelphia, a free city.

The Underground Railroad

Once she was free, Tubman dedicated her life to helping other slaves escape to freedom. She became a conductor on the Underground Railroad, and she made 13 trips back to Maryland to help slaves escape. Tubman was known for her courage and determination, and she was often called the "Moses of her people." She helped over 300 slaves escape to freedom, and she never lost a single passenger.

The Civil War

When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Tubman joined the Union Army. She worked as a scout and a spy, and she also helped to recruit black soldiers. Tubman was a fearless fighter, and she was always willing to put her life on the line for her beliefs. She fought in several battles, including the Battle of Fort Wagner and the Battle of Olustee.

Later Life

After the Civil War, Tubman continued to work for the rights of African Americans. She helped to found the National Association of Colored Women, and she worked to secure voting rights for black women. Tubman also worked to help freed slaves find jobs and housing. She was a tireless advocate for justice and equality, and she never gave up on her dream of a better life for all Americans.

Harriet Tubman died in Auburn, New York, on March 10, 1913. She was 93 years old. She was buried with full military honors, and her grave is a national historic landmark. Harriet Tubman was a true American hero, and her story is an inspiration to us all.

Legacy

Harriet Tubman was a remarkable woman who made a significant contribution to the fight for freedom and equality. She was a courageous abolitionist, a dedicated conductor on the Underground Railroad, and a fearless fighter in the Civil War. Tubman's legacy continues to inspire us today, and her story is a reminder of the power of one person to make a difference.

Harriet Tubman has been honored in many ways. She has been featured on postage stamps, coins, and monuments. There are schools, libraries, and parks named after her. And in 1990, she was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame.

Harriet Tubman's story is a testament to the human spirit. She was a woman who overcame adversity and dedicated her life to fighting for justice and equality. She is a role model for us all, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Harriet Tubman Queen Of The Hurricanes: The Fearless Elsie MacGill (A Feminist History Society Book)