Born into slavery, the girl who grew up to become Elizabeth Freeman had little control over her life. As a young woman, “Bett” worked as a domestic servant in the home of a prominent western Massachusetts family. When Bett became a mother, she knew that her daughter was also destined for a life of slavery if something did not change. That something was emancipation! It took tremendous courage, but Bett went to court and sued for her freedom. She won and became the first African-American woman to be set free under the new Massachusetts constitution.

CK Curriculum Alignment: CKLA Grade 4 (download only); CKHG Grades 4 & 7

Voices in History™ is a Core Knowledge Biography Series that encourages young readers to learn about real superheroes in history. As a result of acts of extraordinary bravery, ingenuity, strength, and determination, these people made a difference and changed the world. Perhaps their remarkable stories will inspire young readers to become the superheroes of the future.