The Life & Times of Frederick Douglass: His Early Life as a Slave, His Escape From Bondage and His Complete Life Story
Nov 2023 · Good Press
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570
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About this ebook
In "The Life & Times of Frederick Douglass," Douglass intricately weaves his extraordinary narrative as a former enslaved African American and prominent abolitionist, merging autobiography with a passionate discourse on human rights. Through eloquent prose and vivid imagery, Douglass not only charts his progression from bondage to freedom but also contextualizes the broader socio-political landscape of 19th-century America. This memoir stands as a pivotal text in American literature, illustrating the resilience of the human spirit while challenging systemic racism and oppression, thereby serving as a powerful historical document and a literary achievement of its time. Frederick Douglass, born into slavery in 1818, emerged as a leading voice for social justice and equality, drawing upon his own harrowing experiences to advocate for the rights of African Americans. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and self-advocacy, bolstered by notable relationships with abolitionists and intellectuals, shaped his worldview and commitment to freedom. Douglass's engagement with influential abolitionist movements and oratory prowess positioned him as a key figure in the fight against slavery, fueling his dedication to documenting the injustices he witnessed firsthand. This remarkable autobiography is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of American history and the enduring struggle for civil rights. Douglass's compelling narrative transcends time, urging readers to reflect on the moral implications of freedom and equality. With his profound insights and eloquent storytelling, Douglass not only enlightens but also inspires action against contemporary injustices, making this work a vital contribution to both literature and social consciousness.
About the author
Born a slave in Maryland in about 1817, Frederick Douglass never became accommodated to being held in bondage. He secretly learned to read, although slaves were prohibited from doing so. He fought back against a cruel slave-breaker and finally escaped to New Bedford, Massachusetts, in 1838 at about the age of 21. Despite the danger of being sent back to his owner if discovered, Douglass became an agent and eloquent orator for the Massachusetts Antislavery Society. He lectured extensively in both England and the United States. As an ex-slave, his words had tremendous impact on his listeners. In 1845 Douglass wrote his autobiography, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, which increased his fame. Concerned that he might be sent back to slavery, he went to Europe. He spent two years in England and Ireland speaking to antislavery groups. Douglass returned to the United States a free man and settled in Rochester, New York, where he founded a weekly newspaper, The North Star, in 1847. In the newspaper he wrote articles supporting the antislavery cause and the cause of human rights. He once wrote, "The lesson which [the American people] must learn, or neglect to do so at their own peril, is that Equal Manhood means Equal Rights, and further, that the American people must stand for each and all for each without respect to color or race." During the Civil War, Douglass worked for the Underground Railroad, the secret route of escape for slaves. He also helped recruit African-Americans soldiers for the Union army. After the war, he continued to write and to speak out against injustice. In addition to advocating education for freed slaves, he served in several government posts, including United States representative to Haiti. In 1855, a longer version of his autobiography appeared, and in 1895, the year of Douglass's death, a completed version was published. A best-seller in its own time, it has since become available in numerous editions and languages.
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