In the 1800s, it wasn't very common for an African American person to be influential. However, it was extremely rare for an African American woman to play a significant role in society. However, Harriet Tubman became one of the most famous African Americans in history. Harriet Tubman's courageous and spirited acts have made her such an iconic figure in history today through her work assisting hundreds of African Americans out of slavery. Throughout his life, his courageous acts painted a picture of strength and generosity for those people who were in need before the Civil War. She has not only become a role model for all African American men and women, but also for those who seek to help others and make a difference in the world. According to www.biography.com, Harriet Tubman “…earned the nickname “Moses” for her leadership. Harriet Tubman's actual date of birth has not been recorded, however it is known that she was born around 1820 and 1825. She was born in the town of Dorchester, Maryland. Her parents, Harriet Green and Ben Ross, gave her the birth name of Araminta Harriet Ross. Both of his parents were owned by slave owners. Harriet Tubman was one of nine children, however three of her sisters were eventually sold to other slave owners. Harriet's childhood years were filled with many obstacles and difficult hardships. Physical and mental aggression was part of Harriet and her family's daily life. These physical pains continued into his later life. When she was just a little girl, being beaten and whipped, which would cause permanent damage to her body and health, was part of her daily life. In an accident while he was trying to protect another slave, www.pbs.org st...... middle of paper ......com. Network. February 2, 2014. .• Cayton, Andrew, et. al. America: Paths to the Present. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2005. Print.• “Harriet Tubman Biography.” Bio.com. A&E Networks Television and Web. December 12, 2013. .• "Harriet Tubman." History.com. Reader's Companion to American History, n.d. Web. October 21, 2013. .• "Harriet Tubman." PBS. PBS and Web. April 13, 2014. .• "Harriet Tubman Timeline." Harriet Tubman Timeline. Np, nd Web. April 12, 2014. .• "The Life of Harriet Tubman - New York History Net." Nyhistory.com. New York Historical Network, n.d. Web. November 11. 2013. .