Harriet Tubman (born Araminta Ross; c. March 1822 – March 10, 1913) was an American abolitionist, social activist, and hero of the Underground Railroad. Born into slavery in Maryland, she escaped to Philadelphia in 1849 and subsequently led approximately 13 missions to rescue around 70 enslaved people, including family and friends.

Key Historical Roles

• The "Moses" of Her People: As a legendary "conductor" on the Underground Railroad, she never "lost a passenger" despite carrying a revolver for protection and facing high bounties for her capture.

• Civil War Service: Tubman served the Union Army as a nurse, cook, scout, and spy. In 1863, she became the first woman to lead an armed military raid—the Combahee River Raid—which liberated over 700 enslaved people.

• Suffragist & Humanitarian: After the war, she settled in Auburn, New York, where she worked alongside activists like Susan B. Anthony for women's suffrage and opened the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged.

Early Life & Injury

• Childhood Trauma: At age 12, Tubman was struck in the head by a heavy iron weight while refusing to help restrain a runaway. This injury caused lifelong seizures, headaches, and narcolepsy.

• Spiritual Visions: She interpreted the vivid dreams and hallucinations resulting from her injury as divine revelations from God, which fueled her courage and determination throughout her life.

Modern Legacy

• Posthumous Honors: In 2024, Maryland Governor Wes Moore posthumously promoted her to the rank of one-star brigadier general.

• Currency: The U.S. Treasury has announced plans to place her portrait on the $20 bill, replacing Andrew Jackson; the design process is currently being expedited.

• National Parks: Two sites, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park in Maryland and the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park in New York, preserve the landscapes of her life and service.