Frederick Douglass: Collected Works (ePub)

Frederick Douglass (c. February 1818 - February 20, 1895), born Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey, was one of the most prominent African American figures in the antebellum era. As a social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman, Douglass became a leading voice for human rights and the eradication of slavery. His literary contributions are pivotal in American literature and history. In his seminal work, the 'Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave' (1845), Douglass vividly recounts his experiences in bondage and his audacious struggle for freedom, providing a first-hand account that exposed the brutal realities of slavery to a wider audience. Further enriching the literary landscape, his 'My Bondage and My Freedom' (1855) expanded upon his life story, reflecting his intellectual growth and evolving perspectives on racial and social issues. Douglass's 'Life and Times of Frederick Douglass' (1881, revised 1892) completed his autobiographical trilogy, offering an in-depth perspective of his activism and diplomacy, as well as the evolution of his political thought. Beyond his autobiographies, Douglass's oratory skills and acute insight were also captured in his numerous speeches, essays, and editorials. His 'Collected Works' provide a comprehensive view of his literary and political contributions, showcasing his profound influence on American civil rights and abolitionist movements. Douglass's work, imbued with his impassioned rhetoric and unwavering commitment to justice, remains an indelible part of American cultural heritage.