Famous Fighters (Footsteps to Freedom: The Underground Railroad)

This series explores the organized network of people who, in utmost secrecy, helped others escape the bonds of slavery. Climb aboard and travel back in time to learn how this system saved thousands of lives and transformed the nation.

Most of the people who worked on the Underground Railroad were not well-known, but many stood out and became famous. The workers came from different races, occupations, and all walks of life. Some spread the word about the injustice of slavery through writing or lectures. Some volunteered behind the scenes, sewing clothes and donating goods to help the runaways. Others risked their lives daily, leading fugitives through swamps and forests and past slave catchers to freedom. Those who were caught were fined, jailed, or even executed. But they did not give up until freedom was won for all.