Ona Judge: A Hero of the Revolutionary War Era
Ona Judge was born in 1773 into slavery in the household of George Washington, the future first President of the United States. Growing up in Mount Vernon, Virginia, Ona was trained in domestic duties and became a skilled seamstress. She had a particularly close relationship with Martha Washington, who secured her the position as the First Lady's personal attendant when the Washingtons moved to Philadelphia. Despite the relatively privileged aspects of her life, Ona was aware of her status as an enslaved person and the limitations imposed on her freedom. On May 21, 1796, after learning that she would be sold to a Southern plantation to ensure her obedience, Ona made a daring escape from the Washingtons' Philadelphia residence, seeking freedom in New Hampshire.
Ona Judge's contributions to the Revolutionary War era extend beyond her individual escape; her flight served as a significant act of resistance against the institution of slavery and highlighted the contradictions inherent in the fight for freedom that defined the American Revolution. After escaping, she faced numerous challenges, living in disguise and relying on the support of abolitionists. Her flight attracted significant attention and became a symbol of hope for many enslaved people. The efforts to recapture her by the Washingtons were relentless, but Ona was unyielding in her commitment to freedom. Her story illuminates the broader struggle for liberty occurring during this period and underscores the fact that the fight for independence was not solely about political freedom but also included the quest for personal freedom for all individuals.
Ona Judge's courage and determination make her a hero in my eyes. While she is often overshadowed by more prominent figures in the Revolutionary War, her bravery in escaping slavery and her resilience in the face of adversity exemplify the spirit of independence. She stood against the very system that sought to bind her, taking tremendous risks to forge her own path. Ona Judge represents the countless individuals who fought for their freedom, often without recognition, but whose actions shaped the course of history. Her legacy serves as a powerful reminder that the principles of the American Revolution—liberty and justice—extend to all people, and her story inspires us to continue striving for equality and freedom in our own time.