The new face of the $20 bill has just been announced: the image of Harriet Tubman, an American abolitionist and humanitarian who escaped the slavery she was born into in order to prevent others from having to share a similar birth. It is estimated that Tubman lead a grand total of 19 missions to aid about 300 slaves escape their captivity.
Besides rescuing hundreds of humans from slavery on oppressive plantations to give them the opportunity to live a different life, she also advocated for the release of the patriarchal restraints on women. A strong supporter of women’s suffrage, Tubman worked alongside Susan B. Anthony in conjunction with other activists to help convince America to let American women vote. As a result of the work of these women and their followers, the 19th amendment was passed in 1920, prohibiting anyone from being refused the right to vote on the basis of sex.
With such profound accomplishments, it’s hard to believe Andrew Jackson, a slave holder who previously appeared on Harriet’s newfound bill, wasn’t replaced sooner.