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SpyCast
How did Harriet Tubman operate as a spy?
Feb 18, 2025
Edda Fields-Black, a social historian and author, joins Harriet Tubman’s great-great-great-grandniece, Ernestine Martin-Wyatt, to discuss Tubman's extraordinary role as a Civil War spy. They delve into how Tubman's espionage efforts led to a pivotal raid that freed over 750 enslaved people. Edda shares insights into Tubman’s innovative tactics and leadership, while Ernestine emphasizes the importance of preserving Tubman’s legacy in the fight for freedom and democracy, even as discussions about her potential image on currency highlight ongoing struggles for representation.
32:33
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Quick takeaways
- Harriet Tubman not only assisted in freeing enslaved individuals through the Underground Railroad, but also conducted vital espionage and commanded an armed military operation during the Civil War.
- The acknowledgment of Tubman’s contributions is growing, highlighting her extraordinary leadership and the ongoing societal shifts regarding race and history in America.
Deep dives
Harriet Tubman's Role as a Civil War Spy
Harriet Tubman played a crucial role in the Civil War as a spy and military leader, most notably during the Cumbie River raid. Despite her background as an illiterate former slave, Tubman successfully led an armed mission that freed over 750 enslaved individuals and dismantled Confederate resources. Her ability to gather intelligence by infiltrating enemy lines and communicating with enslaved people was instrumental to the Union's strategy. This operation not only challenged traditional warfare tactics but also showcased Tubman's exceptional leadership skills, making her the first woman in the U.S. to command an armed military operation.
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Discover
highlights
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