Who is Frederick Douglass?
America: The Story of the USA · Liam Heffernan
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Show Notes
You have probably heard the names Harriet Tubman or Booker T. Washington (not the WWE superstar), but what about Frederick Douglass?
As an African American born into slavery, nobody would have suspected this man would grow up to be one of the greatest public speakers of all time. Learning how to read and write by exchanging bread for books with local white children, Frederick Douglass broke out of bondage and became the most photographed person in 19th century America.
In this episode celebrating Black History Month 2023, we discuss the life and achievements of an abolitionist, a politician and, most importantly, a free black man in 19th century America, as we ask... who is Frederick Douglass?
Guests on this episode:
- Dr. Rebecca Fraser, a historian of 19th century America with a particular interest in the history of African Americans, especially relating to their resistance against slavery and the enslaved experience.
- Tony Phillips, a former undergraduate in American Studies at UEA. He forged a career as a documentary maker at the BBC, later becoming a commissioning editor at BBC World Service and BBC Radio 4. He was also Vice President of Content at WNYC Studios in New York, and he’s currently the exec producer on Every Voice with Terrance McKnight for WQXR NY.
Key Points of Discussion:
- Douglass' upbringing as a slave, and his time in Maryland.
- What Frederick Douglass' can still tell us about the black experience in America today.
- Douglass the abolitionist and public speaker
- Post civil-war and his political career
Additional Resources:
BOOK: Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave
BOOK: Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom
PODCAST: Every Voice with Terence McKnight
BOOK: Frederick Douglass by Wililam S. Mcfeely
WEBSITE: Frederick Douglass’ Fifth of July Speech
If you enjoy this episode, you might also like:
How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation?
What Does Kindred Tell Us About Plantation Life?
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