American Writers Museum

Frederick Douglass was a relentless advocate for change and constantly challenged the status quo in American society through his writing and speeches. Everyone who seeks change faces obstacles they must overcome. Using what you learned navigating through the Frederick Douglass: Agitator Resource Kit, address the questions below.

Frederick Douglass-Agitator

From the end of the Civil War until his passing in 1895 Douglass continued his public speaking with more than 800 speeches. He also wrote all the time, published his newspaper, and served in various government positions for more than 30 years.

Explore the later life of Frederick Douglass

A brilliant orator, writer and social justice agitator, Frederick Douglass meticulously cultivated his image through photography. His portrait was taken over 160 times, in sittings across the country, making Douglass the most photographed American of the 19th century. 

The Most Photographed Man of the 19th Century

The words of Frederick Douglass ring true today just like they did 150 years ago. Watch this video to hear students from Young Chicago Authors read short quotes from some of Douglass’ famous speeches. YCA helps young people from all backgrounds to understand the importance of their own stories and those of others, so that they can pursue the path they choose and work to make their communities more just and equitable.

Bringing Douglass’ Words to Life

Frederick Douglass changed his times, but he never changed the clarity of his mission: equality for all. Author and orator Frederick Douglass was a “self-made man” (the title of one of his most popular speeches). To Douglass, a self-made man was an activist who sought to eradicate the sins of society. He escaped from slavery to become one of the most eloquent voices of abolitionism. The official end of slavery in 1865 marked the second phase of Douglass’ career. His words – passionate, brilliant, and powerful – denounced violent racism in the South while demanding true equality for all Americans.