Harriet Tubman Quotes: Courage, Freedom, and Legacy

Harriet Tubman, born Araminta "Minty" Ross, was a conductor on the Underground Railroad, leading enslaved people to freedom. Her bravery and unwavering commitment to abolition made her a pivotal figure in American history. Beyond her actions, her powerful words continue to inspire generations. This article explores Harriet Tubman quotes, delving into their meaning and the context of her extraordinary life. We'll examine themes of freedom, courage, faith, and perseverance, showcasing how her words resonate even today.

Quotes on Freedom

Harriet Tubman dedicated her life to liberating enslaved people. Her Harriet Tubman quotes on freedom are not abstract concepts but reflect her lived experience and unwavering belief in the right to self-determination. These quotes are powerful reminders of the cost of freedom and the importance of fighting for it.

"I freed a thousand slaves. I could have freed a thousand more if only they knew they were slaves." This quote highlights the mental chains of slavery and the importance of self-awareness in seeking liberation.
"There was one of two things I had a right to – liberty or death; if I could not have one, I would have the other." This powerful statement underscores Tubman's determination to be free, even at the cost of her life.
"We saw the lightning and that was the guns; and then we heard the thunder and that was the big guns; and then we heard the rain falling and that was the blood falling; and when we came to get in the crops, it was dead men that we reaped." While not a direct quote attributed to Harriet Tubman herself, this vivid account, often associated with her work during the Civil War, captures the brutal reality of the fight for freedom. It highlights the sacrifices made in the pursuit of liberation and the cost of war.
"I never ran my train off the track, and I never lost a passenger." This quote, metaphorical in nature, speaks to her success and dedication in guiding enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad.
"I wouldn't trust nobody but myself." This sentiment reflects the inherent dangers and need for self-reliance within the Underground Railroad network.
"Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world." This quote emphasizes inner strength as a key to achieving freedom and making a difference.
"Most of those coming from the South had never seen a train. They were afraid. I told them to trust me and I would not let them down." This highlights her leadership skills and the trust people placed in her during perilous journeys.

Quotes on Courage

Harriet Tubman's inspirational quotes often highlight the importance of courage in the face of adversity. Her own life was a testament to bravery, and her words inspire others to overcome their fears and fight for what they believe in.

"If I had listened to fear, I would never have left." This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the essence of courage – overcoming fear to pursue a greater purpose.
"I had reasoned this out in my mind; there was one of two things I had a right to – liberty or death; if I could not have one, I would have the other; for no man should take me alive; I should fight for my liberty as long as my strength lasted, and when the time came for me to go, the Lord would let them take me." This illustrates her unwavering resolve and fearless determination.
"I started with this idea in my head, there's two things I got a right to, death or liberty. One or the other I mean to have. Nobody will take me alive." This reinforces her commitment to freedom, even at the ultimate cost.
"I had crossed the line. I was free; but there was no one to welcome me to the land of freedom. I was a stranger in a strange land." This quote reveals the challenges of freedom, highlighting the loneliness and isolation that can accompany it.
"Quakers almost as good as colored. They believe in making everybody free." While potentially simplified, this suggests an appreciation for allies in the fight against slavery.
"Lord, I'm going to hold steady on to you, and I know you'll see me through." This displays the role of faith in bolstering her courage.
"We got to go free or die. And if we can't go free, we're going to die fighting, I tell you." This shows her relentless spirit and commitment to the cause.

Quotes on Faith

Faith played a significant role in Harriet Tubman's life. She believed that God guided and protected her, giving her the strength to carry out her mission. These Harriet Tubman quotes reveal the depth of her spiritual conviction.

"I always told God, ‘I’m going to hold steady on you, and I know you’ll see me through.'" This quote demonstrates her unwavering faith in God's guidance and protection.
"God's time is always near. He set the North Star in the heavens; He gave me the strength in my limbs; He meant I should be free." This quote connects her personal freedom to a divine plan, emphasizing her belief in God's providence.
"I prayed to God to make me strong and able to fight, and that's what I've always prayed for ever since." This highlights her reliance on prayer for strength and guidance.
"I wasn't afraid, because I knew the Lord was with me. I stood up for what I believed in, and I knew I was doing the right thing." This showcases her unwavering faith and conviction.
"I trusted in God, and God guided my feet. He set the North Star in the heavens, and He gave me the strength in my limbs." This reinforces the connection between her faith and her ability to navigate the Underground Railroad.

Tubman's Legacy: An Enduring Inspiration

The impact of Harriet Tubman's legacy extends far beyond her lifetime. Her courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice continue to inspire people around the world. Her words serve as a reminder of the power of individual action and the importance of fighting for what is right. Her Harriet Tubman abolitionist quotes are especially relevant today as we continue to grapple with issues of inequality and injustice.

Her story has been immortalized in countless books, films, and documentaries, ensuring that her legacy lives on for future generations.
Activists and civil rights leaders often cite her as a source of inspiration in their own struggles for equality.
Her image has been proposed for the U.S. $20 bill, a testament to her enduring importance in American history.
Schools and organizations are named in her honor, perpetuating her memory and values.
Her quotes are frequently shared on social media, inspiring individuals to stand up for what they believe in.

Conclusion

Harriet Tubman's words are a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for courage, resilience, and unwavering faith. Her quotes offer invaluable insights into her life, her beliefs, and her dedication to freedom. By understanding the context and meaning behind her words, we can gain a deeper appreciation for her extraordinary legacy and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.