The Life and Death of Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman’s Contributions to the Abolitionist Movement
Harriet Tubman was an African American abolitionist and political activist who played a pivotal role in the fight against slavery in the United States. Born into slavery in Maryland in the early 1820s, Tubman escaped to freedom in the North in 1849. Over the course of the next decade, she made numerous dangerous trips back to the South to help guide other enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad.
Tubman also played an active role in the abolitionist movement, working alongside prominent figures such as Frederick Douglass and John Brown. During the Civil War, she worked as a nurse, cook, and spy for the Union Army, and also served as a leader of a group of African American scouts.
In addition to her work as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, Tubman also spoke publicly about her experiences as an enslaved person and the need to end slavery. Her speeches and writings helped to galvanize public support for the abolitionist cause and served as a powerful reminder of the injustices of slavery.
Today, Tubman is widely recognized as a hero and a symbol of the struggle for freedom and civil rights in the United States. In 2020, it was announced that she would be the new face of the US $20 bill, replacing former President Andrew Jackson.
Harriet Tubman’s Later Years and Declining Health
After the Civil War ended, Harriet Tubman continued to work tirelessly for the betterment of African Americans. She advocated for women’s suffrage and established the Harriet Tubman Home for Aged and Indigent Colored People in Auburn, New York, to provide care for elderly African Americans who had been formerly enslaved.
However, as she grew older, Tubman’s health began to decline. She suffered from a variety of ailments, including seizures, severe headaches, and episodes of narcolepsy. These health issues were likely the result of a traumatic head injury she had suffered as a young woman, when a slave owner threw a heavy object at her head.
Despite her health problems, Tubman remained active and continued to speak out for the rights of African Americans. In 1913, she marched in the Women’s Suffrage Parade in Washington, D.C., alongside prominent suffragists such as Alice Paul and Ida B. Wells.
Harriet Tubman passed away on March 10, 1913, at the age of 91. She was buried with military honors at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn, New York, and her legacy as a courageous abolitionist and civil rights icon continues to inspire people around the world.
The Circumstances Surrounding Harriet Tubman’s Death
Harriet Tubman’s death in 1913 was a solemn moment in American history. She had lived a long and remarkable life, filled with bravery and dedication to the cause of freedom. However, there are some mysteries surrounding the circumstances of her death.
According to historical records, Tubman died of pneumonia. However, some accounts suggest that her death may have been caused by something more sinister. Some historians have speculated that she may have been poisoned, possibly by a member of her own family.
One theory is that Tubman’s niece, Margaret Stewart, may have been responsible for her death. Stewart had a history of mental illness, and some reports suggest that she was jealous of her aunt’s fame and fortune. There are also rumors that Stewart may have been involved in voodoo, which has led some to speculate that she may have used poison to harm Tubman.
However, there is no concrete evidence to support these claims, and they remain just theories. It is more likely that Tubman’s death was the result of natural causes, as she was in poor health at the time. Nevertheless, the rumors surrounding her death serve as a reminder of the challenges and hardships that Tubman faced throughout her life, even in her final moments.
Harriet Tubman’s Enduring Impact on American History and Civil Rights
Harriet Tubman’s legacy as an abolitionist and civil rights icon has endured long after her death. She is widely regarded as one of the most courageous and inspiring figures in American history, and her contributions to the struggle for freedom and equality continue to inspire people around the world.
Tubman’s work on the Underground Railroad helped hundreds of enslaved people escape to freedom, and her advocacy for the abolition of slavery helped to galvanize public support for the cause. Her bravery and determination in the face of great danger have made her an enduring symbol of courage and perseverance.
In addition to her work as an abolitionist, Tubman was also a vocal advocate for women’s suffrage and other civil rights causes. She recognized the interconnectedness of these issues and worked tirelessly to promote equality and justice for all people.
Today, Harriet Tubman is celebrated as a national hero and an icon of American history. Her image graces postage stamps, currency, and monuments, and her story continues to inspire generations of people who seek to create a more just and equitable world.
Conclusion: Harriet Tubman’s Enduring Legacy
Harriet Tubman’s life was marked by incredible bravery, determination, and a deep commitment to justice and equality. Her work on the Underground Railroad helped to liberate hundreds of enslaved people, and her advocacy for abolition and civil rights helped to transform American society.
Today, Tubman’s legacy continues to inspire people around the world. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles and sacrifices that have been made to advance the cause of freedom and equality. Her courage in the face of adversity, her unwavering commitment to justice, and her enduring impact on American history and civil rights make her one of the most important figures in our nation’s history.
As we continue to work towards a more just and equitable society, we can look to Harriet Tubman as a role model and an inspiration. Her life and her legacy remind us of the power of courage, determination, and solidarity in the face of injustice, and serve as a beacon of hope for all those who seek to create a better world.
