The news of Harriet Tubman replacing Andrew Jackson on the $20r bill has been highly buzzed about since its announcement. Overall, the series of $20 bills with Harriet Tubman on them has been supported over the Internet. The $20 bill is the third most circulated bill and is being updated with new technology in order to prevent counterfeit issues.
Tubman is the first African-American to be featured on currency in the States and the first woman in over a century to be featured on American dollars. Martha Washington and Lady Liberty were the last women to be featured, but many feminist groups have the intentions starting a trend to have more women of history on bills. The Women of 20's were the largest supporters of the addition of a woman on the $20 bill, along with the overwhelming support influenced by the success of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical of Tubman's life.
While Harriet Tubman is often highlighted in our history books and known for her contribution as a Civil Rights activist, there are countless reasons why she is more than deserving to be featured on the $20 bill that many Americans may be surprised by.
Tubman is known for being the conductor for the Underground Railroad, an escape system devised to free enslaved Southerners. Tubman escaped slavery in 1849 into the free city of Philadelphia.
One of the most interesting roles Tubman played during the Civil War was as a spy and scout behind enemy lines. Because of this, it took her 30 years to receive pension for her services. She served in the army as an army cook and nurse, but later became the first woman to lead an armed expedition.
Harriet Tubman did not carry her name until she was married. She was born in Maryland as Araminta and nicknamed "Minty" by her family, which consisted of nine children.
While enslaved, she experiences numerous injuries that left scars, one of which affected Tubman during her entire life. After refusing to capture a runaway slave for his master, she was struck across the head and suffered head injuries including seizures and epilepsy.
For her leadership role in creating the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman was referred to as "Moses" for the hundreds of slaves she helped lead to liberation. Harriet Tubman is more than deserving to be featured on the $20 bill and as representation for the African American community and strong women in history.
"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."
