Sojourner Truth

Sojourner Truth was born a slave in New York around 1797. Her first name was Isabella. She ran away to freedom with her baby daughter in 1826. Later she changed her name and traveled to speak out against slavery and unfair treatment of women.

Her Escape

Isabella worked hard as a slave for many years. New York was going to free all slaves, but her owner would not let her go. So she walked away one morning before sunrise with her baby. A kind family paid to set her free forever.

A Powerful Voice

In 1843, she changed her name to Sojourner Truth. Sojourner means traveler. She traveled all over the country giving speeches. Her most famous speech is called Ain't I a Woman? She spoke with great power even though she had never learned to read or write.

Fun Facts

• She was almost six feet tall, which was very tall for a woman at that time.
• She met President Abraham Lincoln at the White House.
• She helped Black soldiers during the Civil War by bringing them food and supplies.

Did You Know?

There is a statue of Sojourner Truth in the U.S. Capitol building, making her the first Black woman honored there.