New Resolution Formally Honors Harriet Tubman’s Civil War Service and Underground Railroad Legacy

This resolution, formally titled the "Original Resolution Honoring Harriet Tubman," is straightforward: it officially acknowledges and honors Harriet Tubman for her extraordinary contributions to American history. It’s a formal declaration by the House of Representatives that details her life and achievements, ensuring her full story is recognized in the legislative record.

The Full Scope of Her Work

This isn't just a general statement; the resolution lays out specific, verifiable achievements. It recognizes that Tubman, born Araminta Ross, escaped slavery via the Underground Railroad, and then returned repeatedly as a conductor. The text notes she led 13 missions, successfully freeing approximately 70 enslaved people. For anyone who thinks of her only in terms of the Underground Railroad, the resolution emphasizes her critical role during the Civil War, where she served as a scout, spy, and nurse for the Union Army.

Military Leadership and Post-War Advocacy

The most striking detail the resolution highlights is her military leadership. It specifically acknowledges that Tubman was the first woman to plan and lead a U.S. military operation. This was the Combahee River Raid in South Carolina, a move that resulted in the liberation of 700 enslaved people. This provision ensures that her status as a military leader is formally recognized. Following the war, the resolution also honors her lifelong advocacy for human rights and women's suffrage, connecting her early fight against slavery to her later work for equality.

What This Means for Everyday People

Since this is a purely commemorative resolution, it doesn't change any laws, taxes, or regulations for busy people. You won’t see a change in your paycheck or your commute. However, for those who value historical accuracy and the formal recognition of figures who fought for human rights, this resolution serves a vital purpose. It solidifies the legislative body’s acknowledgment of Tubman’s full, multifaceted legacy—not just as an abolitionist, but as a spy, military leader, nurse, and suffragist—ensuring the historical record reflects the depth of her courage and impact.