📚 Harriet Tubman — SAT Practice
Reading, Evidence, Vocabulary & Reasoning
Reading Passage
Harriet Tubman was born enslaved on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in approximately 1822. In 1849, she escaped slavery and reached Philadelphia. However, her journey toward freedom did not end with her own escape.
Between 1850 and 1860, Tubman returned to Maryland approximately thirteen times to help family members and friends escape slavery. She used careful planning, knowledge of the landscape, trusted relationships, and courage to help people reach freedom.
During the Civil War, Tubman continued serving others. She worked as a nurse, scout, and spy for the Union. Her knowledge of the waterways and marshlands of South Carolina later contributed to the planning of the Combahee River Raid in June 1863.
During the raid, Tubman and Union forces traveled up the Combahee River. More than 700 enslaved people were liberated. Tubman’s experience, preparation, intelligence network, and perseverance helped make the operation possible.
Tubman’s life demonstrates that doing what is right requires more than good intentions. It may require preparation, courageous action, continued effort, and a willingness to help others.
Historical information adapted from the U.S. National Park Service.
Question 1 — Main Idea
Which choice best states the main idea of the passage?
Question 2 — Evidence
Which detail from the passage best supports the idea that Tubman demonstrated perseverance?
Question 3 — Vocabulary in Context
In the passage, the word “sustained” most nearly means:
Question 4 — Inference
What can reasonably be inferred about Tubman’s preparation for helping others?
Question 5 — Author’s Purpose
Why does the passage describe Tubman’s work both before and during the Civil War?