Introduction
This essay examines the portrayal of Harriet Tubman in Chapter 14.1 of the OpenStax US History textbook, focusing on how Sarah H. Bradford, as referenced in the text, characterizes Tubman. It explores the specific language Bradford employs to link religion with the fight for freedom and offers a personal reflection on the reading. Harriet Tubman, a prominent figure in American history, is often celebrated for her role in the Underground Railroad during the mid-19th century. This analysis seeks to understand the parallels drawn between Tubman and biblical figures, the religious symbolism in her narrative, and the broader implications of such framing within the context of slavery and emancipation in the United States.
Bradford’s Characterization of Harriet Tubman
In Chapter 14.1 of the OpenStax US History textbook, Harriet Tubman is characterized through the lens of Sarah H. Bradford’s biography, which paints her as a heroic and almost mythical figure (OpenStax, 2014). Bradford, a 19th-century writer, describes Tubman as a selfless liberator who risked her life to lead enslaved individuals to freedom via the Underground Railroad. The text highlights how Tubman orchestrated numerous dangerous missions, rescuing approximately 70 people, and never lost a single individual under her guidance. This portrayal emphasizes her courage, resilience, and strategic acumen, positioning her as an extraordinary leader in the abolitionist movement. Moreover, Bradford’s narrative, as cited, underscores Tubman’s deep personal conviction and moral strength, arguably casting her as a larger-than-life figure whose actions transcended ordinary human capability.
Religious Language and the Fight for Freedom
Bradford’s account, as presented in the chapter, frequently employs religious language to frame Tubman’s mission within a spiritual context (OpenStax, 2014). Tubman is explicitly likened to Moses, the biblical prophet who led the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt. This comparison, often encapsulated in the epithet “American Moses,” draws a direct parallel between Tubman’s efforts to free enslaved people and the divine liberation narrative in the Book of Exodus. The text notes how Bradford uses terms such as “deliverer” and invokes imagery of a promised land—freedom in the North or Canada—to imbue Tubman’s actions with a sacred purpose. Furthermore, Tubman’s own reliance on faith, including her reported visions and prayers for guidance, is highlighted as a source of her unyielding determination. This religious framing not only elevates Tubman’s role but also ties the fight against slavery to a moral and spiritual imperative, resonating deeply with the Christian values prevalent among many abolitionists of the era.
Personal Reflection on the Reading
Reflecting on this reading, I find Bradford’s characterization of Tubman compelling yet somewhat idealized. While the comparison to Moses effectively underscores Tubman’s role as a liberator, it risks oversimplifying the complex socio-political dynamics of slavery and resistance. Indeed, such a portrayal may obscure the collective efforts of countless others in the Underground Railroad network. However, the religious language serves a powerful purpose by aligning the abolitionist cause with divine justice, likely inspiring greater support among contemporary audiences. Personally, I appreciate how this framing captures the profound moral outrage against slavery, though I remain mindful of its limitations in fully capturing the gritty, often dangerous realities Tubman faced. This reading has deepened my understanding of how historical narratives can be shaped by cultural and religious lenses, prompting further curiosity about how such interpretations influence modern perceptions of historical figures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chapter 14.1 of the OpenStax US History textbook, through Bradford’s lens, characterizes Harriet Tubman as an extraordinary liberator, akin to the biblical Moses, whose courage and leadership were pivotal in the fight against slavery. The use of religious language, such as references to deliverance and divine guidance, ties her mission to a spiritual struggle for freedom, enhancing the moral weight of her actions. While this portrayal is inspiring, it invites critical reflection on the balance between idealization and historical accuracy. Ultimately, this reading illuminates the intersection of religion and resistance in American history, encouraging a nuanced appreciation of Tubman’s legacy and the broader abolitionist movement. Such narratives continue to shape our understanding of freedom and justice, underscoring the enduring relevance of Tubman’s story.
References
- OpenStax. (2014) U.S. History. OpenStax.
