Harriet Tubman

When I had to pick a hero I wanted to pick one that matched my description. The person had to be brave, willing to help other people, and willing to stick up for the right thing. I found that Harriet Tubman had these characteristics. She was also self confident that she would accomplish her many tasks. Harriet risked her life to save blacks because she knew she was sticking up for the right thing.

Harriet Tubman was born a slave in 1826 in Dorchester County Maryland. As she grew, she thought it was unfair that whites had the best food, clothing, and houses. She also didn't believe it was right that blacks should work for other people and be whipped. She learned about the Underground Railroad from other slaves and knew she would someday use it. She married John Tubman, a free slave, who betrayed her when she told him of her plan to escape. She knew that she now had to escape. Also, she was going to be sent to a chain gang down south. Although she was frightened, she knew it was the best thing for her. With the help of the people involved in the Underground Railroad she made it to freedom!!!! As soon as she crossed the line to freedom she made a promise to travel into the south again and free her family and other slaves.

Harriet Tubman loved living in freedom. She especially enjoyed the fact that if you don't like one job, you can quit and try another one. Harriet Tubman worked as a cook to collect money for her trips back to the South. She collected enough money and in the following ten years saved 300 slaves! She accomplished her goal to save her family although it was a hard task because her parents were old. Harriet Tubman became known as "Moses of her people". Slave catchers also heard about her. There was a reward for 40,000 dollars for whoever found her. This made it difficult for Harriet to travel to the south. Her friends convinced her to join the Norhtern army instead of making trips to the south. Harriet followed their advice and became a nurse, spy and soldier. She was so helpful the government offered to pay her for her work. With Harriet's help the North won the war.

The war ended and Harriet had to make money to support her parents and herself. Also, former sick slaves came to her house because they believed she had healing powers. Harriet made money by telling her stories at Womens' Rights meetings and at people's homes. When Harriet knew she was going to die, she gave her house to the black church for poor blacks to live for free. On March 10, 1913, Harriet Tubman died. Philadelphia put up a plaque in her honor. Also, a stamp was made with her portrait on. Harriet Tubman made the United States a better place for all races to live.