Harriet Tubman's Milestones

Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist and political activist who escaped slavery, led hundreds to freedom via the Underground Railroad, served as a Union spy, and advocated for women's suffrage.
1822

Birth

Harriet Tubman was born Araminta Ross in Dorchester County, Maryland, to enslaved parents Ben Ross and Harriet Green.

Family March 1, 1822
1830

Childhood and labor

Worked as a child laborer on plantations and suffered harsh treatment.

Other January 1, 1830 - January 1, 1844
1844

Sustained head injury

Sustained a severe head injury from a blow by an overseer, resulting in lifelong health issues and visions.

Other January 1, 1844

Marriage to John Tubman

Married John Tubman, a free Black man; kept his surname after escaping.

Relationship January 1, 1844 - January 1, 1851
1849

Escape from slavery

Escaped slavery and fled to Philadelphia, leaving her family behind.

Achievement September 17, 1849
1850

Underground Railroad rescues

Led about 13 missions to rescue approximately 70 enslaved people via the Underground Railroad.

Achievement January 1, 1850 - December 1, 1860

Rescue missions for family

Returned to Maryland multiple times to rescue family members from slavery.

Achievement January 1, 1850 - January 1, 1857
1858

Assisted John Brown

Assisted abolitionist John Brown in planning the raid on Harpers Ferry.

Other January 1, 1858 - October 16, 1859
1862

Civil War service

Served as a nurse, cook, scout, and spy for the Union Army during the Civil War; led the Combahee River Raid, freeing over 700 enslaved people.

Career January 1, 1862 - April 9, 1865
1869

Marriage to Nelson Davis

Married Civil War veteran Nelson Davis.

Relationship March 18, 1869
1896

Women's suffrage activism

Advocated for women's suffrage and civil rights, speaking at national events.

Other January 1, 1896 - March 10, 1913
1908

Established Home for the Aged

Founded the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged in Auburn, New York, to care for elderly African Americans.

Achievement June 1, 1908
1913

Death

Harriet Tubman died in Auburn, New York, honored as a hero of freedom.

Other March 10, 1913