Harriet Tubman: peacemaker and stateswoman

Harriet Tubman's widely recognized successful work for the Underground Railroad overshadowed many other noteworthy contributions she made as a peacemaker and stateswoman. She rose above the societal limitations imposed by being enslaved and a woman and made unparalleled contributions to the cause of social justice. Tubman's commitment to family unification was a driving force for the perilous trips she made for the Underground Railroad. Her legacy includes being a formidable commander and strategist in the U.S. Civil War. In addition, Tubman was instrumental in helping many African Americans transition to freedom and economic sufficiency during the pre- and post-Civil War Reconstruction eras. In her late sixties, Tubman purchased land to fulfill her vision of providing housing and supportive services for older and indigent African Americans. For more than 20 years, she worked tirelessly using self-help, mutual aid, and partnerships to fulfill her dream of the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged. Keywords: self-help; housing; aging; pioneers; African American