Skip navigation links (access key: Z)
National Library of Canada
NLC Home FrançaisContact UsHelpNLC SearchGovernment of Canada

Introduction
Towards Confederation
Provinces and Territories
People
Maps 1667-1999
Confederation for Kids
Graphical element
Graphical element: Photo
Banner: Canadian ConfederationBanner : Canadian Confederation
Section Title: Towards ConfederationSection Title: Towards ConfederationSection Title: Towards Confederation
About This SiteKey TermsDocumentsImagesBibliographyFor Teachers
Spacer

Harriet Tubman

Photograph: Harriet Tubman with some of her charges

Harriet Tubman was born a slave in Maryland in 1820. She escaped in 1849 and made at least 19 return trips to the South to guide fugitives to the Northern states and freedom. In 1850 the Fugitive Slave Act made it dangerous for runaways to remain in the North. Harriet made 11 trips to Canada leading more than 300 Underground Railway "passengers" to Canada. They moved only at night, sheltering in barns, chimneys and haystacks. She allowed no dropping out or turning back. She drew a pistol on one discouraged fugitive, saying, "Move or die." He and the rest of the group reached Canada in safety.



Previous | Next