Introduction
Mariah Ritty Ross, born in 1811, is a significant yet often overlooked figure in American history, primarily known as the sister of the famed abolitionist Harriet Tubman. While Harriet Tubman’s legacy as a conductor of the Underground Railroad and a fierce advocate for freedom is widely recognized, Mariah’s story remains largely untold. Born into slavery in Dorchester County, Maryland, Mariah’s life was marked by tragedy and separation from her family, which profoundly influenced Harriet Tubman’s life and work.
Basic Information
| Name | Mariah Ritty Ross |
| Born | 1811 |
| Family Members | Ben Ross (father), Harriet Greene (mother), Harriet Tubman (sister), Linah, Soph, Robert, Ben, Rachel, Henry, Moses (siblings) |
| Status | Enslaved |
| Location | Originally Dorchester County, Maryland; later sold to the Deep South |
| Death | Unknown |
| Legacy | Sister of Harriet Tubman, symbol of the impact of family separation due to slavery |
Family Background
Mariah Ritty Ross was born to Ben Ross and Harriet Greene on an unspecified date in 1811. She was one of nine children, growing up alongside her siblings Linah, Soph, Robert, Ben, Rachel, Henry, and Moses. The Ross family was enslaved and lived under the oppressive ownership of Edward Brodess, who was known for his harsh treatment of slaves. In 1825, at the tender age of 14, Mariah was sold to a plantation in the Deep South, which would forever separate her from her family, marking a tragic turning point in her life.
The Impact of Slavery
The sale of Mariah and her sisters Linah and Soph to the Deep South had a devastating impact on their family. This loss was not just physical; it left emotional scars that would last a lifetime. Mariah, along with her sisters, faced the brutal realities of slavery in a new environment, away from their family and the familiar comforts of home. Harriet, who was born in 1822, would later recall the anguish of being separated from her siblings, a trauma that echoed throughout her life and was compounded by her own struggles with enslavement.
Harriet Tubman’s Attempts to Rescue Her Sisters
Harriet Tubman, determined to rescue her family members, undertook multiple perilous journeys back to Maryland after she escaped to freedom in 1849. She learned about the fates of her sisters, especially Rachel, who had been sold to a family in the South. Harriet desperately sought to locate and bring her sisters back, but her efforts were in vain. In 1859, Harriet learned that Rachel had died, leaving behind two young children. This news added to Harriet’s burden, as she had already lost Mariah and her other sisters to slavery.
The Effects of Separation on Harriet Tubman
The loss of her sisters deeply affected Harriet Tubman emotionally and psychologically. Harriet’s struggles were not merely a result of her own enslavement but were compounded by the grief of losing her sisters. The pain of separation contributed to Harriet’s chronic health issues, including frequent epileptic seizures. The traumatic experiences of her family shaped her beliefs and actions, reinforcing her resolve to fight against the institution of slavery.
Mariah Ritty Ross’s Life After Separation
Details about Mariah Ritty Ross’s life after her sale are sparse, as many records from that era were not meticulously kept, especially pertaining to enslaved individuals. However, it is believed that she endured the harsh conditions of slavery in the Deep South, where countless others like her faced unimaginable hardships. The exact date of her death remains unknown, but her legacy as Harriet Tubman’s sister is a reminder of the countless lives affected by the trauma of slavery.
Family Legacy and Recognition
Despite her tragic circumstances, the legacy of Mariah Ritty Ross lives on through her connection to Harriet Tubman. Tubman’s relentless fight for freedom and justice for enslaved people was undoubtedly influenced by her experiences with family separation. The descendants of Tubman’s family, including the great-great-granddaughter of Tubman’s sister Soph, are working tirelessly to preserve her legacy. Efforts to honor Harriet Tubman continue, including campaigns for her induction into various halls of fame and the push for her image to appear on currency.
Conclusion
Mariah Ritty Ross’s life, while shrouded in tragedy and loss, is an essential part of the narrative surrounding Harriet Tubman and the struggle against slavery in America. The separation from her family not only shaped Mariah’s existence but also profoundly impacted her sister Harriet, who would become a symbol of freedom and resistance. Understanding Mariah’s story is crucial to appreciating the wider context of the fight for justice and the resilience of those who lived through the horrors of slavery. Their shared experiences highlight the enduring spirit of resistance that continues to inspire generations today.
FAQ
Who was Mariah Ritty Ross?
Mariah Ritty Ross, born in 1811, was the sister of Harriet Tubman and an important yet often overlooked figure in American history, known for her experiences related to slavery.
What was Mariah’s family background?
Mariah was born into slavery in Dorchester County, Maryland, to parents Ben Ross and Harriet Greene. She was one of nine children in the Ross family.
What happened to Mariah after she was sold?
At the age of 14, Mariah was sold to a plantation in the Deep South, which separated her from her family. Details of her life in the South remain sparse due to limited historical records.
How did Harriet Tubman feel about Mariah’s separation?
The separation from her sisters deeply affected Harriet Tubman, contributing to her emotional struggles and chronic health issues. Harriet’s grief over their loss fueled her determination to fight against slavery.
What is Mariah Ritty Ross’s legacy?
Mariah’s legacy is intertwined with that of Harriet Tubman, highlighting the impact of family separation due to slavery. Efforts are ongoing to honor both women’s contributions to the fight for freedom.
