The Underground Railroad Explained in 10 Minutes

The Underground Railroad was a network developed in the early 19th century to help runaway slaves in the US escape to freedom. Composed of brave men and women, it helped free around 100,000 people leading up to the American Civil War.

After the American Revolution, America became divided over slavery. The abolitionist movement gained popularity as states outlawed slavery, with every state north of Maryland abolishing it by 1804.

Large plantations becoming profitable made it risky to emancipate slaves. There were conflicting views on the benefit of freedom for Africans, and the brutal life of slaves in the American South led to few daring to escape.

Legislation in 1850 allowed slave owners to track down escaped slaves. The lead-up to the Civil War saw dangers from slave catchers intensifying, while the British Empire's abolition of the slave trade influenced abolitionists in the US.

Organized planning became essential to help slaves escape, leading to the establishment of the Underground Railroad network. Slang related to railways was adopted to describe the network.

Station masters sheltered slaves, and the journey involved safe houses leading to Canada. Quakers played a vital role, with key figures like Levi Coffin and Isaac Hopper contributing significantly.

Harriet Tubman, a brave ex-slave, played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad, helping numerous slaves escape to freedom. She was highly revered during her lifetime and beyond.

John Brown, a controversial figure, engaged in radical and violent activities as part of the Underground Railroad. His actions escalated the tensions that eventually led to the Civil War.

The Underground Railroad's operations continued until the Emancipation Proclamation by President Lincoln in 1863. With the Union winning the war by 1865, the Underground Railroad's activities came to an end.