HARRIET: Traveling the Path of the Underground Railroad (Ep. 84)

In Ep. 84 we talk with historian Anthony Cohen about the Underground Railroad and its legendary conductor Harriet Tubman as seen in the 2019 film HARRIET. Anthony Cohen personally retraced the journey of the Underground Railroad and self-emancipation by foot, rail, and boat from Maryland to Canada in 1996. His walk got the attention of Oprah Winfrey who asked him to prepare her for her role in the 1998 film BELOVED based on the Toni Morrison novel.

The 2019 film HARRIET traces the escape from slavery to freedom of Minty Ross, and her transformation into the iconic American freedom fighter Harriet Tubman. Haunted by memories of those she left behind, Harriet Tubman ( Cynthia Erivo) ventures back into dangerous territory on a mission to lead others to freedom. With allies like abolitionist William Still (Leslie Odom, Jr.) and the entrepreneurial Marie Buchanon (Janelle Monae), Harriet Tubman risks capture and death to guide hundreds to safety as one of the most prominent conductors of the Underground Railroad.

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TIMESTAMPS

0:02 - Podcast Open

1:49 - History of the Underground Railroad

3:59 - Overview HARRIET film

5:00 - Anthony Cohen's 1996 Underground Railroad Journey

16:25 - Underground Railroad: Networks, Risks, and Dangers

27:56 - Preparation for Historical Immersive Experiences

32:26 - Preparing Oprah Winfrey for BELOVED film

42:50 - The Menare Foundation Mission and Activities

46:22 - Five Steps for Understanding Freedom Seekers46:49 Anthony Cohen's 2026 Walk to Canada

1:02:25 - Engaging with History and Call to Action

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Revolution to Rights: America at 250 " series. The historical dramas featured in "Revolution to Rights" tell stories of battles fought in the quest for freedom, and the people whose collective actions and courage inspire us to move beyond remembrance, and to take actions today to ensure freedom and justice for all.

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