Harriet Tubman was a leading abolitionist who went on to become the most famous conductor of the Underground Railroad -- a network of secret routes and safe houses destined to help those enslaved during the 19th century.
The routes led to free states but later on, as the Fugitive Slave Law was adopted, slaves could be captured and returned to their masters. So Harriet Tubman changed the route to Canada, which prohibited slavery categorically, leading hundreds of slaves to freedom, using this route. Her efforts, ingenuity, and determination later earned her the "Moses" moniker, among others.
Born in a family of slaves, she was beaten, sold and constantly ill due to poor conditions and endless struggles; yet Tubman knew that she was destined for something bigger, which gave her the determination to escape -- and take others with her.
By being a great leader and helping so many, she achieved greatness and restored faith among enslaved people. During the Civil War, Tubman also worked as a spy, working alongside the Union Army.
Harriet became a highly respected figure in history and an American icon. Here are 12 Harriet Tubman quotes to help you find the leader within.
Don't ever stop. Keep going. If you want a taste of freedom, keep going.
I had reasoned this out in my mind; there was on 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.
Never wound a snake; kill it.
I was the conductor of the Underground Railroad for eight years, and I can say what most conductors can't say; I never ran my train off the track and I never lost a passenger.
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.
I grew up like a neglected weed - ignorant of liberty, having no experience of it.
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.
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.
Slavery is the next thing to hell.
And I prayed to God to make me strong and able to fight, and that’s what I’ve always prayed for ever since.
I freed a thousand slaves I could have freed a thousand more if only they knew they were slaves.
I can't die but once.
Military Dad Defends His 4 Little Daughters When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Military Dad of 4 Daughters Defends His Girls When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Austin von Letkemann is the military officer strangers feel "sorry" for — and the reason is infuriating.
Whenever the devoted father leaves the house with his four children, strangers can't help but notice the officer in uniform is holding hands with 4 adorable little girls. They will tell the traditionally "masculine" and "all American" dad they feel sorry for him, because he has no sons. This dad makes one thing very clear: They are his daughters, they aren't a burden.
In a passionate video, von Letkemann took to Instagram to share with his followers that the only thing that's "difficult" about being a girl dad — is clapping back to these sexist remarks over and over again.
They Mock His Daughters To Their Face
When strangers approach Austin von Letkemann and his four daughters, they don't always realize that their comments are being overheard. They seem oblivious to the fact that his girls understand every word. Von Letkemann describes how people will approach him and, without thinking, make remarks like "I'm sorry" or even joke about his lack of sons. What they don't realize is that these comments, intended to be light-hearted or humorous, can be deeply hurtful to his daughters. These strangers are not just disrespecting von Letkemann's choices as a father; they're also sending a message to his daughters that their presence is something to be pitied. It’s a message that von Letkemann won't stand for, and he's speaking out to defend his girls from these insensitive remarksSaying "Get Your Shotgun" Isn't Funny — It's Sexist
Another common comment that Austin von Letkemann encounters is the old "better get your shotgun ready" trope, often delivered with a smirk or a wink. This line is typically intended to suggest that a father with daughters should be on high alert to protect them from potential "suitors," implying that they are objects to be guarded rather than individuals with agency.
Von Letkemann finds this line of thinking outdated and sexist. In his viral Instagram video, he points out that these jokes are not just stale — they're damaging.
By suggesting that his daughters require armed protection, the joke reinforces the idea that women are inherently vulnerable and need to be shielded from men. Von Letkemann argues that instead of promoting this narrative, society should focus on teaching respect and consent, challenging these sexist tropes at their source.
Watch Austin von Letkemann's Video:
"If I Had A Fifth Child, I'd HOPE It Was A Girl" — One Dad's Message For Other Parents
Despite the constant remarks about his lack of sons, Austin von Letkemann is clear: He wouldn't trade his daughters for anything.
In fact, he told his Instagram followers that if he were to have a fifth child, he would hope for another girl. This declaration isn't just about doubling down on his pride in his family — it's a pointed response to those who see fathering daughters as a misfortune.
Von Letkemann's stance is a powerful one, rejecting the notion that a family is incomplete without sons. He encourages others to question the assumptions behind these comments and to appreciate the joy and fulfillment that his daughters bring. By sharing his story, von Letkemann hopes to create a more inclusive perspective on fatherhood, one that values daughters just as much as sons.