Harriet Tubman, The Moses of Her People (eBook)

Sarah Hopkins Bradford (1818 – 1912) was an American writer and biographer known for her works detailing the lives of significant historical figures, particularly African American women who played a crucial role in the abolitionist movement. Notably, Bradford authored 'Harriet Tubman, The Moses of Her People' in 1886, an expansive biography that chronologically traces the life of Harriet Tubman—the renowned conductor of the Underground Railroad. Tubman's narrative, as recounted by Bradford, extends from her birth into slavery to her monumental contributions to the emancipation of slaves and her Civil War service (Bradford, 1886). Bradford's literary style is representative of the 19th-century biographical genre, wherein the portrayal of character and personal virtues often takes precedence over strict historical documentation. While recognizing Tubman's heroic achievements, Bradford also imbued her work with reverence and admiration, which bolstered Tubman's legendary status in American history. Bradford's commitment to social justice and her historical biographies provided contemporary readers with insightful perspectives on the struggles and triumphs of African Americans. Her works remain significant for their early contribution to African American history and for bringing to light the narratives of powerful women who had previously been marginalized or overlooked in historical documentation.