Harriet Robinson Scott: A Personal Fight for Emancipation with National Ramifications

Before the Civil War, many enslaved people, including Harriet Robinson Scott, used the courts to fight for their freedom. Harriet, born into slavery, was moved to Fort Snelling where slavery was illegal. She married Dred Scott, and together they sued for their freedom after being taken to Missouri. Although they initially won, the Missouri Supreme Court reversed the decision. Their case, known as Dred Scott v. Sanford, reached the US Supreme Court, which ruled against them, stating no Black person could be a US citizen. This decision stood until the 14th Amendment in 1868. Harriet's role in this legal battle highlights the fight against slavery.

Why is Harriet Robinson Scott often left out of history despite her significant contributions?

What impact did the ruling of the Supreme Court have on enslaved people's ability to sue for their freedom?