How Did Harriet Tubman Contribute To The Civil War

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Uncovering Harriet Tubman's silent Heroism and contribution in the Civil War Nduka Ozulumba Excelsior University HI 325 African American History Professor Jennifer Lemak-Buff February 18, 2024 Uncovering Harriet Tubman's silent Heroism and contribution in the Civil War In the annals of American history, notable individuals, men and women, have knitted memories of the struggle for freedom. African American contribution in the era of the Civil War helps to acknowledge the effort and contribution of a notable individual like Harriet Tubman who played a cardinal role among other great individuals who demonstrated strong commitment in the fight for freedom. The struggle for freedom and recognition of African American contributions during the Civil …show more content…

Beyond her well-known liberating activities, Tubman emerges as a complex individual, with notable roles as humanitarian, political activist, entrepreneur, and patriot. Despite her illiteracy, her exploits during the Civil War as a nurse, cook, and spy for the Union Army are preserved in surviving documents, shedding light on her struggles against sexism and racism (Chism, 2005). Harriet Tubman's complex contributions during the Civil War, including her roles as a nurse, cook, and spy, were significant for the Union Army (Chism, 2005). Tubman's involvement as a nurse and spy not only showcased her individual heroism but also shed light on the broader struggles faced by African Americans in the post-war era. As a nurse, Tubman played an essential role providing care to wounded soldiers, providing comfort, and tending to their medical needs on the battlefield. Her dedication to this role exemplified her commitment to the well-being of others and her willingness to serve in challenging circumstances. Furthermore, Tubman's role as a spy was instrumental in gathering top level intelligence for the Union Army. She was dexterous in her ability to navigate enemy territory, gather …show more content…

As documented by Hopkins et al. (2011) Tubman struggled with financial compensation, receiving little payment for her multiple contributions to the mission of the Union. Despite Tubman indispensable roles as a nurse, cook, and spy, her compensation fell far below her effort, recognition and remuneration. Her financial struggle not only spotlights the the challenges faced by African American women in securing fair compensation, but also reveals the deep-seated discrimination that persisted in post-war era in the United States. The meager payment Tubman received during the war is a true reflection of the broader struggles for economic justice faced by African Americans in the aftermath of the Civil War. As the nation grapples with the complexities of Reconstruction, Tubman's financial plight mirrors the larger systemic barriers that impeded the economic progress of the African American community. Her determination to secure pension reflects not just an individual struggle but a collective endeavor to rectify the injustices perpetuated by a society struggling with the aftermath of slavery. Tubman's resilience in the face of financial adversity further amplifies the significance of her overlooked roles as a nurse and spy. Despite Tubman’s challenges, she remained committed to her mission to reclaim freedom;