VOICES OF THE VANGUARD • VOLUME 1 • TRACK 2
Sojourner Truth
TRUTH • COURAGE • EQUALITY
Hear the music. Read the story. Continue the journey.
The song video for this track is coming soon.
Meet Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth was born Isabella Baumfree around 1797 in Ulster County, New York. Born into slavery, she spoke Dutch as a child and was sold several times. In 1826, Truth escaped with her infant daughter. She later went to court to recover her son Peter, who had been illegally sold, and won the case. In 1843, she chose the name Sojourner Truth and began traveling as a preacher and public speaker. Truth became a leading voice for the abolition of slavery and for women’s rights. Because she could not read or write, she shared her experiences through speeches and dictated her life story. Her direct language, commanding presence, and willingness to challenge unfair treatment made her nationally known. During the Civil War, Truth supported Black Union soldiers and assisted formerly enslaved people. Her life demonstrates how personal experience, faith, and public speaking can be used to demand freedom, dignity, and equal rights.
Listen For
- The power of public speaking
- Connections between abolition and women’s rights
- How personal experience becomes advocacy
Words to Know
Abolition • Equality • Advocacy • Oratory
Think About It
How can speaking from personal experience help others understand injustice?
Keep Exploring
A free printable activity for Sojourner Truth is coming soon. Get the Full Activity Pack →
← Previous Voice: Nat Turner • Volume 1 Home • Next Voice: Ida B. Wells →