When Harriet Tubman was 12 years old, she experienced a severe head injury that had a profound impact on the rest of her life. During this period, she also underwent a significant change in her identity, adopting the name Harriet.
A Life-Altering Injury
At the age of 12, Harriet Tubman, then known by her birth name, Araminta Ross, sustained a critical injury to her head. This was not an accident but a deliberate act: she was struck by a white overseer. The brutal blow occurred because she courageously refused to participate in the restraint of another enslaved individual who had attempted to escape. This injury left her with lifelong consequences, including recurring headaches, seizures, and vivid dreams or visions, which she interpreted as divine premonitions. This experience became a pivotal moment, strengthening her resolve and contributing to her later unwavering faith and determination as a conductor on the Underground Railroad.
The Change of Name
Around the same time she endured this serious injury, Harriet Ross also transitioned from being known by her "basket name," Araminta. She began to be called Harriet, in honor of her mother. This name change marked another symbolic shift in her early life, coinciding with a deeply traumatic and formative event.
For further information on Harriet Tubman's life and timeline, you can refer to resources like the Harriet Tubman timeline from the University at Buffalo.
Key Details at a Glance
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Main Event | Serious head injury from a blow |
| Perpetrator | White overseer |
| Context | Refusal to assist in tying up a man who attempted escape |
| Name Change | From Araminta (birth name) to Harriet (after her mother) |
