Il memoriale “Swing Low” dedicato a Harriet Tubman a New York

Harriet Tubman, a woman whose name is etched in America’s collective memory, represents a pivotal figure in the African American community. Born into shackles around 1822 in Maryland, Tubman’s journey to become a leading abolitionist and conductor in the Underground Railroad leaves an indelible mark on the anti-slavery movement as well as on the broader narrative of freedom and racial equality in America and the entire world. This study wants to provide a comprehensive understanding of the key role of Harriet Tubman as one of the main conductors in the Underground Railroad system with a specific focus on the less-explored sides of her leadership. By exploring the historical significance of the Underground Railroad and Tubman’s achievements, this thesis aims to establish a foundation to appreciate the relevance of the Swing Low Memorial, understand the motivation behind its creation and its role in shaping collective consciousness around racial equality and human rights. The first chapter of this thesis aims to contextualize the importance of Harriet Tubman’s role by describing the intricate system of the so-called Underground Railroad, a secret network of escape routes and safe houses that played a key role in the liberation of enslaved people. The chapter then moves on to unravel the economic causes that led to the formation of cotton plantations and the beginning of slavery in America. I will also describe the curious and clever strategies such as signal songs, code words and quilting symbols, used by slaves and Underground Railroad leaders to communicate and convey secret messages. I will then narrow down the field to focus on New York City, a pro-southern town in which the Underground Railroad was operating in much greater secrecy than in any other town. The second chapter addresses the figure of Harriet Tubman providing a panoramic view of her life and most important achievements. I will try to shed light on the less known and recognized parts of her life portraying her not only as an Underground Railroad leader but also Civil War nurse, spy, activist, and abolitionist. To conclude my discussion, I will shift the focus to the Swing Low Memorial in New York City realized to honor and commemorate Tubman’s legacy and enduring impact.