Harriet Tubman was a brave woman. She grew up as a
slave in Maryland. As an adult, she escaped north to Pennsylvania. Tubman
returned to Maryland to help rescue her family. She returned many times to help
other slaves. She guided slaves to safety along a network known as the
Underground Railroad. People who helped slaves move to freedom were called
“conductors.” They were named after the people who controlled trains on
railroads. In 1861, the United States began fighting the Civil War. This was a
struggle between northern and southern states, partly over whether people
should be allowed to own slaves. President Abraham Lincoln signed a law in
1863. The law stated that slavery was no longer allowed in the United States.
With the law on her side, Tubman continued for many years to help people who
were treated unfairly.
Activities:
1. According to this passage, how many years ago did
the United States begin fighting the Civil War?
2. What does this passage tell you about Harriet
Tubman? Watch the video to learn more about her. Then retell her story to your
pals in your own words.
