Harriet Tubman: Conductor on the Underground Railroad

Harriet is born to two devoted parents, Ben and Old Rit. How does their influence shape her life and choices? Explain with references to the text.

Unlike many of her neighbors, Old Rit does not enjoy talking about running away or insurrections like those led by Nat Turner or Denmark Vesey. Instead, she “fears change.” Why does Old Rit feel this way, and what are her hopes for the future?

When Harriet is young, her parents hope she will learn a skill so she can work indoors. However, she hates being inside and resents her bosses’ cruel behavior toward her. Despite her limited options, how does Harriet show resistance to her circumstances and try to carve her own path on the plantations where she works?