Harriet Tubman (1822-1913), known as the “Moses of her People” for delivering slaves of African descent to the North to freedom, was an American abolitionist and political activist. She used the Underground Railroad, a network of safe houses and antislavery activists and supporters willing to provide shelter, food and guidance, to rescue friends, family and others. Born into slavery, she was determined to have her freedom and help others find freedom as well. She’s quoted saying: “I would fight for my liberty so long as my strength lasted, and if the time came for me to go, the Lord would let them take me.” Tubman later helped abolitionist John Brown recruit men for his raid on Harpers Ferry. During the Civil War, she served as an armed scout and spy for the United States Army and later was an advocate for women’s suffrage.
Harriet Tubman
