Harriet Tubman stands as one of the most courageous and inspiring figures of the American Civil War era. Known primarily for her heroic work with the Underground Railroad before the war, her contributions during the Civil War further cemented her status as a legendary leader and humanitarian. Tubman, a formerly enslaved woman who had already risked her life to lead others to freedom, continued her mission by supporting the Union Army as a nurse, scout, and even a spy. Her remarkable service during the war not only saved lives but also shifted the course of history. Understanding Harriet Tubman’s role in the Civil War reveals her deep commitment to justice and her significant impact on the fight against slavery.
Background and Escape from Slavery
Harriet Tubman was born into slavery around 1822 in Dorchester County, Maryland. Her birth name was Araminta Ross, but she later adopted the name Harriet in honor of her mother. Life as an enslaved person was marked by violence and hardship, and Tubman experienced brutal treatment at the hands of her enslavers. In 1849, she made the bold decision to escape, using the Underground Railroad a network of secret routes and safe houses to reach freedom in the North.
Underground Railroad and Leadership
After gaining her freedom, Harriet Tubman became one of the most active conductors on the Underground Railroad. She returned to the South multiple times, risking her life to guide more than 70 enslaved individuals to freedom. Her intelligence, bravery, and deep sense of purpose earned her the nickname ‘Moses’ among those she helped liberate.
- Led rescue missions deep into slaveholding states
- Used disguises and signals to avoid capture
- Worked closely with abolitionists and Quaker communities
By the time the Civil War began in 1861, Tubman was already renowned for her fearless work and had earned the trust of many abolitionist leaders.
Harriet Tubman’s Role in the Civil War
When the Civil War erupted, Tubman saw an opportunity to contribute even more directly to the cause of freedom. She volunteered to assist the Union Army in a variety of roles. Her firsthand knowledge of Southern terrain, experience in covert operations, and strong leadership made her a valuable asset.
Nurse and Humanitarian Service
Tubman served as a nurse in Union camps, particularly caring for African American soldiers and newly freed slaves. Many of these individuals suffered from malnutrition, disease, and wounds, and Tubman used her knowledge of herbal medicine to treat them. She also provided moral and spiritual support, comforting those who had experienced deep trauma.
- Treated smallpox and dysentery using natural remedies
- Provided clothing and food to displaced families
- Supported freed slaves transitioning to new lives
Scout and Military Intelligence Work
Harriet Tubman also acted as a military scout for the Union Army. Working under the command of Union officers, she helped gather intelligence behind Confederate lines. Her understanding of the land and ability to move unnoticed allowed her to provide crucial information about enemy positions and troop movements.
- Used espionage skills honed during Underground Railroad missions
- Mapped key locations and supply routes
- Coordinated with local African Americans to gather intelligence
This work was highly dangerous, but Tubman’s fearlessness and commitment to the cause drove her to take significant risks. Her efforts contributed to Union successes in several key operations.
The Combahee River Raid
One of Harriet Tubman’s most celebrated wartime achievements was her leadership in the Combahee River Raid of June 1863. In this mission, Tubman collaborated with Union Colonel James Montgomery to plan and execute an assault on Confederate plantations along the Combahee River in South Carolina. The goal was to destroy Confederate supplies and free enslaved individuals.
- Led Union gunboats through mined waters
- Coordinated with enslaved people to launch surprise attacks
- Over 700 slaves were freed in a single night
This was the first military operation in U.S. history led by a woman, and it had a powerful impact on morale and logistics. Tubman’s leadership in the raid demonstrated her capability as both a strategist and a liberator.
Challenges and Recognition
Despite her service, Harriet Tubman faced many challenges. She was never formally commissioned by the military and often had to fight for basic support and recognition. Tubman worked for little or no pay, relying on donations and personal determination to continue her work.
Lack of Compensation
After the war, Tubman struggled to receive the compensation owed to her for her service. It took decades of petitions and public appeals before she was granted a pension. Even then, the amount was far less than what she deserved. This injustice highlights the systemic discrimination faced by Black women during and after the Civil War.
Public Advocacy
Harriet Tubman continued to fight for civil rights long after the war. She became a prominent speaker, advocating for the rights of women, African Americans, and the elderly. She supported suffragist leaders like Susan B. Anthony and worked to establish a home for aged and indigent Black people in Auburn, New York.
- Spoke at suffrage conventions and abolitionist gatherings
- Promoted equal rights for all, regardless of race or gender
- Founded the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged
Legacy of Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman’s contributions to the Civil War and the broader fight for justice remain an essential part of American history. Her life is a testament to the power of courage, faith, and unwavering dedication to freedom. From leading enslaved people to safety, to gathering intelligence for the Union Army, Tubman embodied heroism in every sense.
Honors and Memorials
In the years since her death in 1913, Tubman has been honored in countless ways. Schools, parks, museums, and historical sites bear her name. She has been featured on postage stamps and is widely regarded as a national icon. Her story continues to inspire new generations to pursue justice and equality.
- Inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame
- Honored with statues and public art installations
- Subject of books, films, and educational programs
Harriet Tubman’s role in the Civil War extended far beyond the battlefield. As a nurse, scout, and liberator, she helped shape the outcome of the conflict and set the stage for a more just society. Her courage in the face of danger, her tireless efforts to uplift others, and her unwavering moral clarity make her one of the most remarkable figures in American history. Remembering Harriet Tubman is not only about honoring the past it is about recognizing the enduring strength and dignity of those who fight for freedom.