Harriet Tubman

Born Araminta Ross, Harriet Tubman was a former slave who became an abolitionist and a spy for the Union army during the Civil War. Tubman is most famous for rescuing more than 70 runaway slaves by using a network of safe houses owned by other abolitionists known as the Underground Railroad. She had escaped a harsh life in Maryland, where she worked first as a child nurse and then a field hand. After escaping to Philadelphia at the age of 29, Tubman immediately returned to Maryland to rescue her family. She faced great danger as she was hunted by the law, but her uncanny ability to find food and shelter during these hazardous missions meant she never lost any of her charges. Later, Tubman worked as a nurse, scout, cook, and spy for the Union army and continued to fight for the rights of women everywhere.

Grade 5-8– A noteworthy volume on the life and adventures of Tubman. Beginning with her tough and often brutal treatment as a young child in slavery

This simple, unvarnished account recalls the courageous life of Harriet Tubman, one of the best-known “conductors” on the Underground Railroad. First published in 1869 and privately printed to raise funds for “the Moses of her people,” Sarah Bradford’s memorable biography recalls the former slave’s grim childhood; her perilous experiences leading slaves into Canada; her efforts as a Civil War nurse, cook, and scout for the Union Army; and her post-conflict endeavors to aid and educate former slaves.

This powerful, nuanced portrait arrives just in time celebrate the bicentennial of American abolitionist and political activist Harriet Tubman.