Combee: Harriet Tubman the Combahee River Raid and Black Freedom during the Civil War by Edda L. Fields-Black provides a deep dive into a lesser-known but significant episode in American history. This book covers the Combahee River Raid, a daring mission led by Harriet Tubman during the Civil War.

Harriet Tubman is widely recognized for her work with the Underground Railroad, but her contributions to the Union Army and her role in the Combahee River Raid are not as well documented. Fields-Black, a descendant of one of the raid’s participants, offers a meticulous account based on original documents, including Tubman’s US Civil War Pension File and other primary sources. This scholarly work sheds light on the broader context of slavery, the Civil War, and the efforts to liberate enslaved people.

Summary

Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War meticulously recounts the events of June 2, 1863, when Harriet Tubman led a raid on South Carolina’s Combahee River. Tubman and her team piloted three gunboats carrying two regiments of Black US Army soldiers.

The raid resulted in the destruction of eight rice plantations and the liberation of 730 enslaved people. Fields-Black also delves into the broader historical context, discussing the laws governing the Transatlantic Slave Trade and the unique culture of the Gullah Geechee people. The book explores the lives of those freed during the raid and their contributions to the war effort, highlighting the formation of the Second South Carolina Volunteers. Through previously unexamined documents, Fields-Black brings to life the experiences of enslaved families and their journey to freedom.

Main Characters

Harriet Tubman, the central figure in Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War, emerges as a multifaceted hero. Known for her work on the Underground Railroad, Tubman also played a crucial role in the Union Army’s intelligence efforts. Other key figures include the Black soldiers of the Second South Carolina Volunteers, who risked their lives in the raid. Fields-Black also highlights the lives of the enslaved people who were liberated during the raid, providing a voice to their stories. The book discusses notable abolitionists like Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth, contextualizing Tubman’s work within the broader abolitionist movement.

Plot

Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War follows a chronological narrative of the Combahee River Raid. It begins with Tubman’s recruitment by the Union Army and her move to Beaufort, South Carolina. The plot thickens as Tubman gathers intelligence and prepares for the raid. On the night of June 2, 1863, Tubman and her team navigate the treacherous waters of the Combahee River. The climax of the story occurs when the gunboats reach the plantations, and the enslaved people hear the steam whistles signaling their freedom. The aftermath of the raid is explored in detail, showing how the liberated people contributed to the Union’s war effort and shaped the Gullah Geechee culture.

Writing Style

Edda L. Fields-Black’s writing style in Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War is both scholarly and accessible. She meticulously documents historical facts while weaving a compelling narrative. The use of original documents and primary sources adds depth and authenticity to the story. Fields-Black’s attention to detail and her ability to bring historical figures to life make this book a captivating read. Her prose is clear and engaging, making complex historical events understandable to a broad audience.

Theme

The central theme of Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War is the fight for freedom and justice. The book highlights the bravery and resilience of Harriet Tubman and the Black soldiers who participated in the raid. It also underscores the importance of intelligence and strategic planning in warfare. Another significant theme is the cultural and social impact of the raid, particularly the formation of the Gullah Geechee identity. The book emphasizes the interconnectedness of the fight for freedom with broader abolitionist efforts and the Civil War.

Message

Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War conveys a powerful message about the strength and determination of enslaved people in their quest for freedom. Harriet Tubman’s role in the raid exemplifies leadership, courage, and strategic acumen. The book also highlights the significant contributions of Black soldiers to the Union’s war efforts. Fields-Black’s meticulous research brings to light the often-overlooked stories of enslaved families and their enduring legacy. The message is clear: the fight for freedom was multifaceted and involved many unsung heroes whose stories deserve recognition.

Strength

One of the strengths of Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War is its thorough research and use of primary sources. Fields-Black’s background as a descendant of a raid participant adds a personal touch to the narrative. The book’s detailed account of the raid and its broader historical context provides a comprehensive understanding of the events. The inclusion of lesser-known figures and stories enriches the historical narrative. Fields-Black’s ability to blend scholarly rigor with engaging storytelling makes this book a valuable resource for historians and general readers alike.

Weakness

While Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War is meticulously researched, its scholarly nature may make it a challenging read for some. The detailed footnotes and appendices, while valuable for historians, might be overwhelming for casual readers. Additionally, the dense information can make the narrative feel slow-paced at times. However, these aspects do not detract significantly from the overall value of the book. Fields-Black’s commitment to thoroughness ensures that readers gain a deep understanding of the historical context and significance of the raid.

Reading Experience

Reading Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War is an enlightening experience. Fields-Black’s narrative brings to life the extraordinary bravery and strategic genius of Harriet Tubman. The detailed descriptions of the raid and its impact provide a vivid picture of this significant historical event. The book’s thorough research and engaging writing style make it both informative and compelling. Readers will gain a new appreciation for Tubman’s contributions to the Civil War and the broader fight for freedom. The audiobook, narrated by Machelle Williams, adds an additional layer of engagement, making the historical narrative feel immediate and accessible.

Conclusion

Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War by Edda L. Fields-Black is a vital addition to the literature on Harriet Tubman and the Civil War. The book sheds light on a crucial yet underexplored chapter of American history. Fields-Black’s meticulous research and engaging narrative bring the Combahee River Raid to life, highlighting the bravery and resilience of Harriet Tubman and the Black soldiers who participated in the raid. This book is a testament to the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom and justice.

Recommendation

I highly recommend Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War to anyone interested in American history, the Civil War, or the abolitionist movement. The book offers a comprehensive and engaging account of a significant historical event. Historians, students, and general readers will all find valuable insights in Fields-Black’s work. The audiobook, narrated by Machelle Williams, is also an excellent option for those who prefer listening to their history. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the full scope of Harriet Tubman’s contributions to the fight for freedom.

Happy Reading 🙂

Amazon link : https://www.amazon.in/Combee-Harriet-Tubman-Combahee-Freedom/dp/019755279X

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