2013 Information Book Awards -- Long-listed
Harriet Tubman encouraged enslaved Africans to make the break for
freedom and reinforced the potential of black freedom and
independence.
Born in the United States and enslaved as a child, Harriet Tubman (circa
1820-1913) is one of the best-known figures connected to the Underground
Railroad. Through her knowledge and outdoor survival skills, honed
through her unpaid labour in the fields and through the later
connections she made in the abolitionist community, Tubman was well
poised to command her followers. By her discipline and example, she
never lost a "passenger."
Tubman's exploits helped to empower those opposed to slavery and enrage
those who supported it. Her success encouraged enslaved Africans to make
the brave break for freedom and reinforced the belief held by
abolitionists in the potential of black freedom and independence.
Referred to as "General Tubman" due to her contributions to the
Underground Railroad and to the Union Army, Tubman's numerous rescue
missions ending in Canada helped to build the interest in escape and
reinforce the position of Canada as the final stop on the journey to
freedom.