The Underground Railroad Explained: US History Review

The video explores five key aspects of the Underground Railroad, debunking myths and clarifying misconceptions. It highlights the roles of both white abolitionists and African-Americans, emphasizing the self-reliance of slaves. The video also addresses the misconception that reaching the North guaranteed freedom, explaining the legal and social challenges faced. Finally, it debunks popular myths about the Underground Railroad, such as the use of quilts for navigation, and underscores the dangerous and clandestine nature of the escape routes.

What was the Underground Railroad?

• A literal railroad used by slaves to escape

• A network of secret routes and safe houses

• A government-funded transportation system

• A series of underground tunnels

Who were the primary operators of the Underground Railroad?

• European allies

• The federal government

• Mainly African Americans and free Blacks

• Only white abolitionists

What was Harriet Tubman's role in the Underground Railroad?

• She was a spy for the Confederacy

• She was a conductor who led many to freedom

• She funded the Underground Railroad

• She opposed the Underground Railroad

What was the Fugitive Slave Act?

• A law that allowed slaves to testify in court

• A law that banned slavery in the South

• A law that required escaped slaves to be returned to their owners

• A law that freed all slaves in the North

Why was reaching Canada important for escaped slaves?

• Canada offered better job opportunities

• Canada had abolished slavery

• Canada provided free housing

• Canada was closer than the Northern states

Approximately how many slaves escaped via the Underground Railroad?

• 1 million per year

• 100,000 over 60 years

• 4 million

• 500,000 in a decade

From which states did most slaves escape using the Underground Railroad?

• Northern states

• Deep Southern states

• Border states like Maryland and Kentucky

• Western states

What is a common myth about the Underground Railroad?

• It was a literal railroad

• Quilts were used to give directions

• It was operated by the government

• It was only in the Southern states

What was the purpose of the song 'Follow the Drinking Gourd'?

• To entertain children

• To provide coded directions for escape

• To teach about the North Star

• To celebrate the end of slavery

What was the significance of the North Star for escaped slaves?

• It was used for navigation

• It was a symbol of hope

• It was a meeting point

• It marked the end of their journey