The Life and Times of Harriet Tubman
“We Out. Harriet Tubman 1849”
Harriet Tubman is one of the most celebrated African American heroes in U.S. history. She is the inspiration behind our "We Out" shirt design. Tubman’s remarkable life story continues to inspire people in 2026 and reminds us of the power behind the symbols we wear.
Early Life: Born Into Slavery
Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in the early 1820s in Maryland, a slave state at the time. She was one of nine children in her family.
- Three of her siblings were sold away, separating the family.
- She endured frequent beatings and whippings, which left her with lifelong physical scars.
- Denied education and forced to work long, dangerous hours, she once contracted measles.
- After a severe head injury from a blow, she began experiencing seizures and periods of unconsciousness.
Despite her hardships, Tubman’s faith in God gave her strength. She often had vivid dreams and visions, which she believed were divine guidance and comfort.
Escape From Slavery
In approximately 1844, Harriet married John Tubman, a free Black man. By 1849, fearing she would be sold and separated from her family, she decided to escape.
- One night in 1849, she famously declared, “WE OUT”, and set out for freedom.
- Guided by the North Star, she traveled by foot to the Underground Railroad—a secret network of routes and safe houses leading to free states and Canada.
- She traveled at night and hid during the day to avoid slave catchers and bounty hunters.
- To evade capture, she sometimes pretended to work for others, such as sweeping yards to blend in.
- Her journey took her through Caroline County, Delaware, and finally to Pennsylvania, a free state.
Becoming “Moses” of Her People
Harriet Tubman did not stop after gaining her own freedom. She became a key conductor on the Underground Railroad, risking her life to help others escape slavery.
- She made numerous return trips to Maryland to rescue family and friends.
- Over the next ten years, Tubman helped more than 300 enslaved people reach freedom.
- She worked alongside notable figures such as Frederick Douglass.
- She never lost a single person she guided to freedom, earning her the nickname “Moses.”
Legacy and Inspiration
Harriet Tubman’s courage and determination continue to inspire people today. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, individuals can make a difference through bravery and compassion.
We are honored to celebrate her legacy with our T-shirt design. Every time we see it, we remember her story and the enduring impact of her actions.
Artwork for this article courtesy of Thomas Blackshear
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Harriet Tubman born?
Harriet Tubman was born in the early 1820s in Maryland, United States. The exact year of her birth is not known, but most sources estimate it between 1820 and 1822.
What was the Underground Railroad?
The Underground Railroad was a secret network of routes, safe houses, and people who helped enslaved African Americans escape from the Southern United States to free states and Canada.
How many people did Harriet Tubman help to freedom?
Harriet Tubman helped over 300 enslaved people escape to freedom through her work on the Underground Railroad over a period of about ten years.
Why is Harriet Tubman called “Moses”?
She earned the nickname “Moses” because, like the biblical figure, she led her people out of bondage and never lost a single person she guided to freedom.
How does Harriet Tubman inspire people today?
Harriet Tubman’s legacy inspires people to stand up for justice, show courage in the face of adversity, and help others, even at personal risk. Her story is still celebrated and honored in 2026.
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