The Underground Railroad and Harriet Tubman — Reading Comprehension

The Underground Railroad was not a real railroad. It was a secret network of people who helped enslaved people escape to freedom. Many brave men and women worked together. One of the most famous leaders was Harriet Tubman.

Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland in the early 1820s. Life was very hard for her and her family. Harriet wanted to be free. In 1849, she escaped and made her way north. She did not stop there. She wanted to help others too.

Harriet became a conductor on the Underground Railroad. She made about 13 trips back to the South. Each time, she led groups of enslaved people to freedom. She used secret signs, safe houses, and trusted friends. Harriet was very brave. She once said, "I never ran my train off the track, and I never lost a passenger."

Helping others was very dangerous. If caught, Harriet could be punished or sent back to slavery. Still, she did not give up. She helped about 70 people escape, including her family. During the Civil War, Harriet also worked as a nurse, a cook, and even a spy for the Union army. She wanted to help win freedom for all.

Harriet Tubman’s courage inspired many people. The Underground Railroad showed the power of working together for justice and freedom. Today, Harriet Tubman is remembered as a hero who changed history.

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

What was the Underground Railroad?

Where was Harriet Tubman born?

How many trips did Harriet Tubman make?

Why was Harriet Tubman called a conductor?

What did Harriet do during the Civil War?

Why was helping others dangerous for Harriet?

Harriet Tubman never lost a passenger. True or false?

What does 'justice' mean?