Frederick Douglass Biography and Quotes

Famously known for

Fredrick Douglass was popularly known for his essential role as a human rights activist in the 19^th century. The renowned writer and orator was a leader in championing for women’s rights during the period.

Early LIfe

Fredrick was born in Talbot County, Maryland. As it was with the case with people born into slavery, Fredrick’s exact date of birth wasn’t known. However, after growing old, he decided to celebrate his birthdays on February 14^th.  

Douglass lost his mother when he was around ten years. The death of his mother saw young Douglass move in to live with his grandmother. Later on, Freddie moved into the house of one of the plantation owners, who is rumored to be his father. 

Personal Life

Douglass married Anna Murray on September 15, 1838. Their love story is incredible as Murray was a free black woman, and who had helped Douglass escape slavery in Baltimore. Douglass left for New York and was later joined by Anna. The two were blessed with five children and lived together until Anna died. After Anna’s death, Douglass married Helen Pitts, a feminist and daughter of the orator’s colleague.

Career

After freeing slavery and settling with his wife in New Bedford, Douglass started telling his story at the abolitionist meeting. Over time, he became a regular lecturer at the conferences. Often, his lectures weren’t received well by the crowds. On one occasion, he found himself cornered by an ugly mob, that he was forced to escape after being rescued by a Quaker family. The author fled to Liverpool and then Ireland, where he spent two years. His British audience collected funds to buy the writer’s freedom. In 1847, he returned to the US as a free man and started producing abolitionist newspapers. 

Death

The famed author died on February 20, 1895 (77 years) at his home in Washington, DC.

Quotes by Frederick Douglass

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