A Mission To Free The People, 1863: Harriet Tubman’s Brilliant Use of The Natural World as a Spy, Scout and Leader

Summary: A Mission to Free the People, 1863 tells a small portion of Harriet Tubman’s long life–her incredible role as a naturalist, spy, and leader during the Civil War. Using her deep knowledge of nature, Harriet used rivers, tides, plants, and the night sky to help guide Union soldiers safely through dangerous territory along the Combahee River in South Carolina. On a daring nighttime mission, she helped locate hidden torpedoes, avoid enemy detection, and lead a raid on Confederate plantations. Most importantly, Harriet and her team freed nearly 800 enslaved people in a single night. This book highlights Harriet’s bravery, intelligence, and skill in using the natural world to fight for freedom and justice.