On February 14, America will observe the birthday of the iconic Frederick Douglass. While the year of his birth has been narrowed down to two possible candidates, the actual month and day Douglass was born are still unknown.
The fight for equality remains, as the challenges have changed their face but not their measure. On Frederick Douglass Day, raise your voice for the cause you believe in, and become the change you wish to see in the world.
Frederick Douglass, a towering figure of American history, is born enslaved as Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey in 1818 in Talbot County, Maryland. He would go on to make a daring escape North and become one of the most famous people in 19th-century America.
Frederick rejected his enslaved name and adopted Douglas, which was inspired by "the Lady of the Lake," a poem by Sir Walter Scott.
As a celebrated orator, author and activist, he became a powerful and eloquent voice not only for the abolition of slavery, but for broader human rights.
Douglass considered photography a tool for Black liberation and became the most photographed man of the 19th century.
Douglass believed in the power of community and remained true to his people. Mark the day by lending a helping hand to someone in need, or standing up for the vulnerable in your community. Organize support groups, lead marches, and bring forth the power of unity.
Douglass became the first-ever Black man to be nominated for the vice presidency, on a ticket with Victoria Woodhull, the first-ever female candidate for president.
“Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave” is one of the most famous accounts of a slave in history. This February, dedicate a day, or week, to the master of words, and indulge in the supreme command of Douglass’ narrative power.
Douglass was an ardent supporter of the suffragette movement and was the only African American to attend women’s rights conferences in the mid-19th century.
Frederick Douglass’ contributions and teaching are underrepresented in the history of Black emancipation, which isn’t representative of the enormity of his role in raising awareness about abolition. On February 14, we get a chance to celebrate this icon and pass down his teachings to the younger generation.
Frederick’s first autobiography became so successful that he feared its publicity would lead to his capture.
Sources: History.com | National Today