African Americans Fight for Freedom — Reading Comprehension

African Americans played a strong role in the fight for freedom in the United States. Many people were born into slavery and worked hard to change their lives. They wanted the right to be free and live with dignity.

Some brave African Americans escaped slavery. They used secret paths called the Underground Railroad. This was not a real railroad. It was a group of people and safe houses that helped slaves run away. Harriet Tubman became a famous leader of the Underground Railroad. She risked her life many times to help others. She said, "I never ran my train off the track, and I never lost a passenger."

Other African Americans fought with words. Frederick Douglass was a well-known abolitionist. He gave speeches and wrote books. He wanted to end slavery and gain equal rights. His words gave hope to many people. He once said, "If there is no struggle, there is no progress."

The Civil War started because the country argued about slavery. Many African Americans joined the Union Army. They wanted to fight for their freedom and the freedom of others. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This important paper helped free slaves in the South.

After the war, slavery ended, but life was still hard. African Americans kept working for equal rights. Their courage and teamwork helped make the country better for everyone.

Interesting Fact: Harriet Tubman was the first woman to lead an armed military raid in the Civil War.

Who led the Underground Railroad?

What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?

Who was a famous abolitionist?

Why did many African Americans join the Union Army?

How did the Underground Railroad help people?

What effect did speeches have?

The Civil War started over slavery.

What is an abolitionist?