Harriet Tubman was an incredible and fearless abolitionist. Born into slavery in Maryland, Tubman was able to escape to the north in 1849. After gaining freedom, she made an additional 13 journeys back into the south to rescue approximately 70 enslaved people, leading them on the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad was a network of safe houses those in slavery could seek out as they took their journey up north. Dubbed the "Moses" of the south, Tubman "never lost a passenger" and was able to save countless lives.

Tubman truly is an inspiration. She risked her life time and time again to help those that were in need of it the most, without asking for anything in return. She was strong-willed, determined, and stood up to the injustice. Even though the people Tubman were leading were full of fear, and though she was most likely scared herself, she found courage and strength in God to keep going. The film Harriet shares the story of her heroic journey and the battles the courageous woman faced. 

Through learning about Tubman's life, we too can find courage within ourselves. Here are some brilliant quotes from the fearless activist we can take inspiration from.

"Don’t ever stop. Keep going. If you want a taste of freedom, keep going."

Even when we are scared, Tubman reminds us that we should never stop trying. Tubman faced incredible adversity as she took each journey, yet knew that in the long run her dedication would be all worth it. If you have a dream, don’t stop chasing it. If you want to achieve your goals you have to keep trying.

"And I prayed to God to make me strong and able to fight, and that’s what I’ve always prayed for ever since."

Tubman was beaten by her owners as a child, so much so that she sustained a traumatic head wound that caused her lifetime dizziness, pain and spells of hypersomnia. After her injury, she began to experience strange visions and vivid dreams, which she felt were premonitions from God. These experiences combined with her Methodist upbringing led her to be incredibly religious.

Her quote here reminds us the power that God can have over our lives, if we let Him in. Tubman trusted in God with all her heart, and because of this He was able to work through her. Tubman knew that God was all-powerful and with each step He was right beside her, guiding her to do His work.

"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."

If you had asked Tubman’s slave owners if she would go on to change the world, they would probably laugh and brush you off. Tubman, however, believed in herself and her dream of getting rid of slavery. She found the strength within herself to change the world, and you can do the same. Don’t be afraid to be a dreamer and reach for your stars.

"I would fight for my liberty so long as my strength lasted, and if the time came for me to go, the Lord would let them take me."

This, again, shows how fearless Tubman was and just how much she trusted God. She was not afraid to die doing what she knew was just and right. She knew that if something ever happened to her, she would go knowing that she had served the Will of God and would be entering into everlasting life in heaven. We should always strive to do the work of the Lord, even when we are afraid. Nothing should stop us, because He is right beside us.

"It wasn’t me, it was the Lord! I always told Him, ‘I trust to you. I don’t know where to go or what to do, but I expect You to lead me,’ and He always did."

Trusting in the Lord will give you so much confidence and reassurance in yourself. You will never have to question which step you take because you know God is leading you. Sometimes the future seems scary and dark, but it doesn’t have to be. Through prayer you can get closer to the Lord, and start to hear His direction for your life more. Harriet did, and was able to accomplish amazing things.

"There was one of two things I had a right to: liberty or death. If I could not have one, I would have the other; for no man should take me alive."

Tubman knew that she had a right to be on this earth as a free woman. She wasn't going to let others dictate how she lived her life, and was ready to die for her freedom. When we are passionate about the dreams we have, we can accomplish more than we ever thought possible. We can change the world and make it a better place to live in for all. Be ready to stand up for what you believe in.

Harriet Tubman should be remembered for her incredible bravery, tough mindedness, and powerful devotion. When times were tough, she pushed forward. Though she looked at the face of death each time she travelled, she continued. Because of her incredible courage, she was able to save the lives of so many slaves. They were able to finally gain freedom and have a second chance at life. We, too, can find that courage in ourselves to change the world. Take inspiration from Tubman and find ways you can apply it to your life.