
Breaking Chains
Harriet Forten Purvis and the Underground Railroad
Failed to add items
Add to Cart failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Adding to library failed
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
$0.99/mo for the first 3 months

Buy for $14.95
No default payment method selected.
We are sorry. We are not allowed to sell this product with the selected payment method
-
Narrated by:
-
Kristen Alifano
-
By:
-
K.T. Glynn
About this listen
Dive into the untold history of the courageous and forgotten, where legends are made and myths are shattered, even if you've never heard their names before…
Are you frustrated by the same repeated tales of history's mainstream figures? Are you looking to uncover the hidden stories of those who dared to fight for freedom and justice against daunting odds?
Do you long to deepen your understanding with accounts built on credible evidence, enriching your perspective of the past and inspiring your vision for the future?
If you relate to these questions, you're not alone. Many passionately curious historians and learners feel the same way.
That's why Breaking Chains: Harriet Forten Purvis and the Underground Railroad sheds light on one of history's unsung heroines, Harriet Forten Purvis, brilliantly weaving the courage and resilience often overshadowed by popular narratives.
Here's just a peek at the rich stories awaiting you:
- Harriet Forten Purvis: Discover the personal and fearless journey of a formidable abolitionist.
- The 7 critical socio-political factors that shaped her relentless fight for freedom.
- Myth-busting insights that correct long-held narratives about the Underground Railroad.
- The 5 leadership strategies Purvis utilized to influence major anti-slavery movements.
- Why conventional history books overlook these compelling accounts and how this book fills that gap.
- How her personal relationships shaped her revolutionary actions in the abolitionist cause.
- The profound impacts and innovations from lesser-known abolitionist networks.
- Empowering narratives that explore the everyday risks she and others took for freedom.
- Lessons for modern society drawn from her defiance and determination.
- Reflections on the importance of cultural artifacts in understanding the Underground Railroad.
Related to this topic
-
The Art of War
- By: Sun Tzu
- Narrated by: Aidan Gillen
- Length: 1 hr and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The 13 chapters of The Art of War, each devoted to one aspect of warfare, were compiled by the high-ranking Chinese military general, strategist, and philosopher Sun-Tzu. In spite of its battlefield specificity, The Art of War has found new life in the modern age, with leaders in fields as wide and far-reaching as world politics, human psychology, and corporate strategy finding valuable insight in its timeworn words.
-
-
The actual book The Art of War, not a commentary
- By Nemo71 on 12-31-19
By: Sun Tzu
-
Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World
- By: Jack Weatherford
- Narrated by: Jonathan Davis, Jack Weatherford
- Length: 14 hrs and 20 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The Mongol army led by Genghis Khan subjugated more lands and people in 25 years than the Romans did in 400. In nearly every country the Mongols conquered, they brought an unprecedented rise in cultural communication, expanded trade, and a blossoming of civilization.
-
-
Golden Horde/Platinum Listen
- By Cynthia on 12-11-13
By: Jack Weatherford
-
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
- As Told to Alex Haley
- By: Malcolm X, Alex Haley
- Narrated by: Laurence Fishburne
- Length: 16 hrs and 52 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Experience a bold take on this classic autobiography as it’s performed by Oscar-nominated Laurence Fishburne. In this searing classic autobiography, originally published in 1965, Malcolm X, the Muslim leader, firebrand, and Black empowerment activist, tells the extraordinary story of his life and the growth of the Human Rights movement. His fascinating perspective on the lies and limitations of the American dream and the inherent racism in a society that denies its non-White citizens the opportunity to dream, gives extraordinary insight into the most urgent issues of our own time.
-
-
it's Nearly perfect
- By Kerry on 09-16-20
By: Malcolm X, and others
-
Mythology: Mega Collection
- Classic Stories from the Greek, Celtic, Norse, Japanese, Hindu, Chinese, Mesopotamian and Egyptian Mythology
- By: Scott Lewis
- Narrated by: Madison Niederhauser, Oliver Hunt
- Length: 31 hrs and 37 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Do you know how many wives Zeus had? Or how the famous Trojan War was caused by one beautiful lady? Or how Thor got his hammer? Give your imagination a real treat. This Mega Mythology Collection of eight audiobooks is for you....
-
-
An interesting set of introductions.
- By Kevin Potter on 05-30-19
By: Scott Lewis
-
Ali in Me
- By: Mercury Studios, Treefort Media
- Narrated by: Lonnie Ali, John Ramsey
- Length: 3 hrs and 31 mins
- Original Recording
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Muhammad Ali, never afraid to express himself loudly and boldly, stays true to form in Ali in Me, an eight-part audio series that explores his life and legacy, guided by his own words through never-before-heard audio recordings. Hosted by Muhammad’s widow, Lonnie Ali, and his close friend, award-winning broadcaster John Ramsey, Ali in Me goes beyond the boxing ring to delve deeply into the extraordinary life and lasting contributions The Champ made to individuals around the world.
-
-
He went hard on everything, especially love
- By 🔥 Phx17 🔥 on 01-31-25
By: Mercury Studios, and others
-
Fingerprints of the Gods
- The Quest Continues
- By: Graham Hancock
- Narrated by: Graham Hancock
- Length: 18 hrs and 31 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Fingerprints of the Gods is the revolutionary rewrite of history that has persuaded millions of listeners throughout the world to change their preconceptions about the history behind modern society. An intellectual detective story, this unique history audiobook directs probing questions at orthodox history, presenting disturbing new evidence that historians have tried - but failed - to explain.
-
-
Classic in Historical Mysteries
- By Kelly on 09-05-19
By: Graham Hancock
-
The Art of War
- By: Sun Tzu
- Narrated by: Aidan Gillen
- Length: 1 hr and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The 13 chapters of The Art of War, each devoted to one aspect of warfare, were compiled by the high-ranking Chinese military general, strategist, and philosopher Sun-Tzu. In spite of its battlefield specificity, The Art of War has found new life in the modern age, with leaders in fields as wide and far-reaching as world politics, human psychology, and corporate strategy finding valuable insight in its timeworn words.
-
-
The actual book The Art of War, not a commentary
- By Nemo71 on 12-31-19
By: Sun Tzu
-
Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World
- By: Jack Weatherford
- Narrated by: Jonathan Davis, Jack Weatherford
- Length: 14 hrs and 20 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The Mongol army led by Genghis Khan subjugated more lands and people in 25 years than the Romans did in 400. In nearly every country the Mongols conquered, they brought an unprecedented rise in cultural communication, expanded trade, and a blossoming of civilization.
-
-
Golden Horde/Platinum Listen
- By Cynthia on 12-11-13
By: Jack Weatherford
-
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
- As Told to Alex Haley
- By: Malcolm X, Alex Haley
- Narrated by: Laurence Fishburne
- Length: 16 hrs and 52 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Experience a bold take on this classic autobiography as it’s performed by Oscar-nominated Laurence Fishburne. In this searing classic autobiography, originally published in 1965, Malcolm X, the Muslim leader, firebrand, and Black empowerment activist, tells the extraordinary story of his life and the growth of the Human Rights movement. His fascinating perspective on the lies and limitations of the American dream and the inherent racism in a society that denies its non-White citizens the opportunity to dream, gives extraordinary insight into the most urgent issues of our own time.
-
-
it's Nearly perfect
- By Kerry on 09-16-20
By: Malcolm X, and others
-
Mythology: Mega Collection
- Classic Stories from the Greek, Celtic, Norse, Japanese, Hindu, Chinese, Mesopotamian and Egyptian Mythology
- By: Scott Lewis
- Narrated by: Madison Niederhauser, Oliver Hunt
- Length: 31 hrs and 37 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Do you know how many wives Zeus had? Or how the famous Trojan War was caused by one beautiful lady? Or how Thor got his hammer? Give your imagination a real treat. This Mega Mythology Collection of eight audiobooks is for you....
-
-
An interesting set of introductions.
- By Kevin Potter on 05-30-19
By: Scott Lewis
-
Ali in Me
- By: Mercury Studios, Treefort Media
- Narrated by: Lonnie Ali, John Ramsey
- Length: 3 hrs and 31 mins
- Original Recording
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Muhammad Ali, never afraid to express himself loudly and boldly, stays true to form in Ali in Me, an eight-part audio series that explores his life and legacy, guided by his own words through never-before-heard audio recordings. Hosted by Muhammad’s widow, Lonnie Ali, and his close friend, award-winning broadcaster John Ramsey, Ali in Me goes beyond the boxing ring to delve deeply into the extraordinary life and lasting contributions The Champ made to individuals around the world.
-
-
He went hard on everything, especially love
- By 🔥 Phx17 🔥 on 01-31-25
By: Mercury Studios, and others
-
Fingerprints of the Gods
- The Quest Continues
- By: Graham Hancock
- Narrated by: Graham Hancock
- Length: 18 hrs and 31 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Fingerprints of the Gods is the revolutionary rewrite of history that has persuaded millions of listeners throughout the world to change their preconceptions about the history behind modern society. An intellectual detective story, this unique history audiobook directs probing questions at orthodox history, presenting disturbing new evidence that historians have tried - but failed - to explain.
-
-
Classic in Historical Mysteries
- By Kelly on 09-05-19
By: Graham Hancock
-
Helter Skelter
- The True Story of the Manson Murders
- By: Vincent Bugliosi, Curt Gentry
- Narrated by: Scott Brick
- Length: 26 hrs and 29 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Prosecuting attorney in the Manson trial Vincent Bugliosi held a unique insider's position in one of the most baffling and horrifying cases of the 20th century: the cold-blooded Tate-LaBianca murders carried out by Charles Manson and four of his followers. What motivated Manson in his seemingly mindless selection of victims, and what was his hold over the young women who obeyed his orders? Now available for the first time in unabridged audio, the gripping story of this famous and haunting crime is brought to life by acclaimed narrator Scott Brick.
-
-
Everything I remembered about the case was wrong..
- By karen on 06-22-12
By: Vincent Bugliosi, and others
-
Allow Me to Retort
- A Black Guy's Guide to the Constitution
- By: Elie Mystal
- Narrated by: Elie Mystal
- Length: 8 hrs and 59 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
This is an easily digestible argument about what rights we have, what rights Republicans are trying to take away, and how to stop them. Mystal explains how to protect the rights of women and people of color instead of cowering to the absolutism of gun owners and bigots. He explains the legal way to stop everything from police brutality to political gerrymandering, just by changing a few judges and justices. He strips out all of the fancy jargon conservatives like to hide behind and lays bare the truth of their project to keep America forever tethered to its slaveholding past.
-
-
Informative and Entertaining
- By Kindle Customer on 03-06-22
By: Elie Mystal
-
Weird Scenes Inside the Canyon
- Laurel Canyon, Covert Ops, and the Dark Heart of the Hippie Dream
- By: David McGowan
- Narrated by: Bill Fike
- Length: 14 hrs and 2 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The very strange but nevertheless true story of the dark underbelly of a 1960s hippie utopia. Laurel Canyon in the 1960s and early 1970s was a magical place where a dizzying array of musical artists congregated to create much of the music that provided the soundtrack to those turbulent times. But there was a dark side to that scene as well. Many didn't make it out alive, and many of those deaths remain shrouded in mystery to this day.
-
-
My first review. This book changed me.
- By Robert on 06-30-19
By: David McGowan
-
Napoleon's Hemorrhoids…And Other Small Events That Changed History
- By: Phil Mason
- Narrated by: LJ Ganser
- Length: 8 hrs and 13 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Hilarious, fascinating, and a roller coaster of dizzying, historical what-ifs, Napoleon's Hemorrhoids is a potpourri for serious historians and casual history buffs. In one of Phil Mason's many revelations, you'll learn that Communist jets were two minutes away from opening fire on American planes during the Cuban missile crisis, when they had to turn back as they were running out of fuel. You'll discover that before the Battle of Waterloo, Napoleon's painful hemorrhoids prevented him from mounting his horse to survey the battlefield.
-
-
They just throw the facts too fast
- By Concerned_llama on 12-11-20
By: Phil Mason
-
The Emerald Tablets of Thoth the Atlantean
- By: M. Doreal
- Narrated by: John Marino
- Length: 2 hrs and 33 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The history of the tablets translated in the following book is strange and beyond the belief of modern scientists. Their antiquity is stupendous, dating back some 36,000 years. The writer is Thoth, an Atlantean Priest-King, who founded a colony in ancient Egypt after the sinking of the mother country. He was the builder of the Great Pyramid of Giza, erroneously attributed to Cheops. In it he incorporated his knowledge of the ancient wisdom and also securely secreted records and instruments of ancient Atlantis.
-
-
Excellence...
- By Light Worker on 04-21-18
By: M. Doreal
-
The Abolitionists
- By: Kellie Carter Jackson, The Great Courses
- Narrated by: Kellie Carter Jackson
- Length: 2 hrs and 31 mins
- Original Recording
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
While most of us are familiar with the Underground Railroad, there was much more to the movement than helping individuals escape their bondage. In the eight lectures of The Abolitionists, Professor Kellie Carter Jackson of Wellesley College will bring you along as she traces the history of the fight to end slavery in America, from its relatively quiet origins to the turning point at Harper’s Ferry to the Civil War.
-
-
Highly Informative
- By Gilbert M. Stack on 02-23-25
By: Kellie Carter Jackson, and others
What listeners say about Breaking Chains
Highly rated for:
Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Butterflywings09
- 04-08-25
Powerful and Personal Look at a True Hero
I’m really glad I listened to this audiobook. I didn’t know much about Harriet Forten Purvis before, and now I can’t stop thinking about her. The way her story is told makes it feel personal and real—, he wasn’t just brave, she was smart, determined, and deeply committed to helping others. It’s not a dry history lesson; it feels like getting to know someone who truly made a difference. If you want to hear a story that’s inspiring and deserves way more attention, this one’s definitely worth your time.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Dr. Ron
- 02-27-25
A Powerful and Eye-Opening Look at History
Breaking Chains brings Harriet Forten Purvis’s legacy to life in a way that history books often fail to do. The depth of research and storytelling makes this audiobook both informative and inspiring. It sheds light on the Underground Railroad beyond the well-known figures, giving credit to the unsung heroes who risked everything for freedom. If you’re passionate about history and justice, this is a great audiobook. I highly recommend this for history buffs and curious minds alike!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- GrammyG
- 02-27-25
A compelling story of courage and resistance
This book brings to life the powerful legacy of Harriet Forten Purvis and her role in the Underground Railroad. The storytelling is engaging and well-researched, shedding light on an often-overlooked figure in history. I appreciated the depth of historical detail and the inspiring message of resilience and activism. If you're interested in untold stories of the fight for freedom, this is a must-read.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Robert Jessica
- 04-04-25
Inspiring and Powerful Story
This audiobook is a great listen for anyone interested in American history and the fight for freedom. Harriet Forten Purvis’s story is one of courage and resilience, and this book really brings her contributions to life. It’s educational, inspiring, and personal, showing the impact she had on the Underground Railroad.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- SterlingCheney
- 04-11-25
This is a fantastic song for the “unsung heroes”!
This book had me holding on the entire time I listened to it. I appreciated the fact that I got to hear the background of another person who played a rather integral part in the underground railroad. Harriet Forten Purvis and the beautiful way at K. T. Glynn told and weaved this beautiful story has me so grateful for all of the people who diligently work to shape and protect the lives of hundreds, thousands, and cumulatively millions, all without getting any credit or recognition in mainstream history books. I definitely feel that more books like this need to be written for the “unsung heroes”. K. T. Did an incredible job of doing justice to yet another secret and integral character in the shaping of US history. I sincerely hope more people get their hands on this book and I can’t wait to see what “unsung hero” Glynn writes about next!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Lightreader89
- 02-28-25
Need their stories told
I love, love, love how K.T. Glynn is shining a much needed light on overlooked heroes of times past (we’re going back to the 1800s here). I thoroughly enjoyed K.T. Glynn’s past release on Sophie Scholl and the White Rose (The Silent Defiance) and so, naturally, I was excited to dive into this next installment about Harriet Forten Purvis, who not only stood in integrity for her cause but also displayed an immense amount of inspirational leadership in doing so–something that many of us in this day and age can learn from. A huge part of these titles I enjoy is simply educating myself on parts of history that have simply not been brought to the forefront as much as they deserve and that need to have their stories told. Not only did Harriet bring about groups that worked to abolish unethical wrongs of the time, but stood as a strong voice wrapped in courage.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Donald
- 03-02-25
Powerful and Inspiring
Listening to this audiobook was an emotional journey through courage and resilience. The storytelling brought history to life, making me feel the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for freedom. The narration was engaging and made every moment feel real. I was deeply moved by the strength and determination of the characters. This is a story that will stay with me for a long time.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Theodore Faison
- 04-03-25
History That Actually Hit Me
I didn’t expect to get this pulled in, but once it started, I was all in. Hearing about someone who’s not usually in the spotlight made the story feel fresh and important. As a guy, I really respected how much she pushed through and took charge. It gave me a new perspective on that era, and honestly, I walked away thinking differently about that time in history.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- BookReaderWriter
- 02-26-25
“A Powerful and Inspiring Listen!” 🚂✨
I was completely captivated by this audiobook! Harriet Forten Purvis’s story is not just a history lesson but a deeply moving testament to bravery and resilience. The blend of historical detail with an engaging narrative made it impossible to stop listening. Kristen Alifano’s narration brought the story to life, adding a layer of authenticity and emotion. I walked away with a renewed sense of admiration for those who fought for freedom. This is a must-listen for anyone who loves history, courage, and powerful storytelling!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- KC
- 02-27-25
An Unseen Hero's Journey of Courage
Breaking Chains takes a look at the life of a historical abolitionist whose work had been undervalued. I was especially struck at how her rebellious dedication to equality transformed the fight for freedom. This educates about her individual struggle but also upends traditional popular narratives for histories. The insights into her leadership strategies and relationships add powerful context to her role in the abolitionist movement. If you’re eager to learn about true heroes whose stories have been hidden, this is a must-read!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!