These Black female figures who changed the history of the United States

Throughout February, the United States and other countries celebrate the contributions of Black people to the fight for human rights and freedoms.

Black History Month honors historical figures of diverse backgrounds, men and women, famous or unknown, who have shaped American society and influenced entire generations through their achievements and courage.

America’s history is rich with the stories of women who distinguished themselves through their strength of character, their contributions to society, or simply their compelling personalities.

BBC Africa looks back at the lives and work of iconic women who have profoundly impacted American history, culture, and society in their respective fields.

Harriet Tubman (1822-1913)

American abolitionist Harriet Tubman is best known for her efforts to lead enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad, a network of anti-slavery activists.

Her legacy is indelible in the abolitionist movement.

A slave in the United States, she freed herself from her chains before helping hundreds of enslaved people escape and becoming involved in the fight against slavery during the Civil War.

She made about ten trips on the Underground Railroad, leading dozens of enslaved people to freedom, without ever being arrested, despite a $40,000 reward for her capture.

In 1844, at the age of twenty-five, she married a free Black man named John Tubman. After the marriage, she changed her name to Harriet. Five years after her marriage, fearing she would be sold further south, Tubman escaped. She went to Philadelphia where she found work as a housekeeper and became active in the abolitionist movement.
In 1850, the Fugitive Slave Act prohibited aiding runaway slaves and gave slave owners the right to reclaim their “property” in states where slavery was illegal. This convinced Tubman to join the Underground Railroad, a network of aid and assistance for fugitive slaves seeking freedom.

Tubman was also the first Black woman to serve in the military, having assisted the Union Army during the Civil War.

Tubman served in the Union Army during the Civil War as a medic, scout, and sometimes spy, primarily in and around South Carolina.

In 1863, she led Black Union soldiers in raids along the Combahee River. This military campaign freed more than 700 enslaved people.

Harriet Tubman remained active in the cause of equality until her death in 1913.