About

This network was not an actual railroad, but rather a series of individuals, both black and white, who believed in the abolition of slavery and aided the escapees. The operation of the Underground Railroad peaked between 1850 and 1860, with estimates suggesting that around 100,000 people were able to achieve freedom through its assistance. The network was mainly active in the border states and areas where slavery was still legal, and it provided escape routes to states in the North or to Canada, where slavery was abolished. The journey was filled with danger and hardships, as fugitives had to navigate through difficult terrains, avoid slave catchers, and depend on the goodwill of strangers. The Underground Railroad played a significant role in fueling the abolitionist movement, bringing national attention to the brutality and injustice of slavery. This clandestine operation challenged the existing legal and social norms of the time and showcased the resilience and determination of those striving for freedom. The Underground Railroad remains an important symbol of resistance and hope in American history.