Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad: Escape to Freedom — Reading Comprehension

The Underground Railroad was a secret network of people and safe houses that helped enslaved African Americans escape to freedom in the 1800s. One of the most influential leaders of this movement was Harriet Tubman. Born into slavery in Maryland around 1822, Tubman faced extreme hardship, violence, and injustice. Despite these obstacles, she became famous for leading dozens of enslaved people to liberty, putting her own life in danger each time. The abolitionist movement, which sought to end slavery, supported Tubman and others in their efforts.

The existence of the Underground Railroad was a direct response to the problem of slavery in the United States. Enslaved people were denied their basic human rights and lived under harsh conditions. In response, some resisted by running away, even though it was extremely dangerous. Slaveholders enacted strict laws, such as the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, to capture and punish those who tried to escape. This law stated, "any person aiding a fugitive slave… shall be subject to a fine or imprisonment." This quote shows how serious the consequences were for anyone who tried to help enslaved people escape, and why the Underground Railroad had to remain so secretive.

Harriet Tubman’s motivation to risk her life came from her own experiences and her belief in freedom for all people. After escaping slavery herself in 1849, Tubman returned to the South at least 13 times to guide others to safety. She used clever strategies such as traveling at night, using coded songs, and relying on trusted allies known as "conductors." Tubman’s actions inspired both hope and fear. For enslaved people, she became a symbol of resistance and courage. For slaveholders, she was seen as a criminal threatening their property and way of life.

However, the Underground Railroad was not a literal railroad. It was a complex network involving many people of different backgrounds. White and Black abolitionists, free African Americans, and religious groups like the Quakers all played a role. Each group had their own perspective. Many abolitionists believed that helping enslaved people was a moral duty. Some people in the North disagreed, fearing conflict with the South. Slaveholders argued that the Underground Railroad was illegal and harmful to their economic interests. These differing views created deep divisions in American society.

The consequences of the Underground Railroad were significant. Thousands of enslaved people gained freedom, but the system also increased tensions between the North and South. This conflict was one of the causes of the Civil War. Tubman’s work is well documented. Historians use evidence from letters, government records, and personal accounts to understand her impact. Tubman herself stated, "I never ran my train off the track, and I never lost a passenger," highlighting her careful planning and determination.

In conclusion, Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad represent both the struggle for human rights and the conflicts that shaped America. The problem of slavery sparked creative solutions, but also deepened divisions. Understanding multiple perspectives and using historical evidence helps us appreciate the complexities of this era.

Interesting Fact: Harriet Tubman also worked as a nurse and spy for the Union Army during the Civil War, continuing her fight for freedom in new ways.

Who was Harriet Tubman?

Where was Tubman born?

What year did Tubman escape slavery?

Why did some people oppose the Underground Railroad?

What was the Fugitive Slave Act?

What is a consequence of the Underground Railroad?

The Underground Railroad was a real railroad. True or false?

What does 'abolitionist' mean?