Essay Example on Fredrick Douglass: Slave to Icon of Black American History

Fredrick Douglass was born in Maryland and has been a huge role model of Black American history in the United States of America. He was born and raised by his grandmother. He was a slave and did not have any memory of her mother. All she can remember are just a few instances, and she passed away at a tender age that she was not able to fathom her resemblance. He was not even sure of his birth date, and his master never wanted to reveal that to them to have leverage over them. Fredrick had a problematic upbringing (Kennedy). This began with his life with his first master, whereby he was transferred to the plantation to stay with Mr. Auld. Here, the wife of Mr. Auld, Sophia began teaching him the simple alphabets; however, the husband rebuked her from teaching Fredrick. He, therefore, had to find a new approach to acquire knowledge (Kennedy). Consequently, Douglass began to seek assistance for the little white children on the streets that had a vast experience of reading. He used to give bread to them for a return of knowledge on how to read.

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Mr. Auld then took him to the worst master, Edward Covey, who was famous for the malicious mistreatment of the slaves (Kennedy). He underwent physical torture; however, he utilized this opportunity to learn how to write. However, Fredrick received renewed strength to attain freedom with two attempts becoming futile, he gathered enough knowledge to write and mastered the bible. He offered lessons to other salves on Sundays during service. He finally was able to escape through using Master Covey's title and was able to escape and go to stay at the safe house of the abolitionist David Ruggles in New York (US History). He was then reunited with Anna, whom she got married and had five kids. Upon her demise, Fredrick married a white activist, and he focused his strength on preaching freedom and abolition of slavery of the blacks in America. He focused on promoting independence for all the inhabitants of America (US History).

During his lifetime, Fredrick Douglass has been faced with numerous challenges. Some of the obstacles include harsh reality from the slave masters. His self-confidence was a challenge because he did not have any knowledge of his family hierarchy, his birth date, etc. He lacked a sense of belonging (US History). During his stay with Mr. Auld, he was forbidden to be taught by the master's wife. He was deprived of knowledge, and this was a huge setback for him. There was also the presence of constant physical mistreatment exercised by his last master, the cruel Edward Covey. Edward Covey brutally beat him twice before he got an opportunity to escape. His leadership and communication concerning freedom for all Americans were faced by numerous challenges, such as opposition. During his abolitionist movement, he had rowdy masses that did not stand by him, and this is evident when he was beaten by an angry mob in the year 1843 during a lecture tour (Wollard).

Fredrick played a significant role in ensuring freedom for all Americans and its inhabitants around the vicinity of the country. His role in reminding the Americans on the ideals of America is another significant impact he has left on the world. Currently, all nations see the United States of America as the hope or home for the breakthrough. Therefore, his mantra on the American ideals for equality and freedom has lived on to the 21st century (Wollard). Another major issue that he made possible up to now is the right for the women to vote. In America, women can actively participate in elections with ridicule of discrimination. This egalitarian system has established a peaceful nation (Wollard).

The most lasting legacy left behind by Fredrick Douglass is his adamant effort in restoring the American ideals for all Americans. The rich heritage of America is essential for all the citizens, and majorly the Black Americans shall always remember his efforts of ensuring that the American ideals were enforced towards them (Wollard). Through Fredrick, the black Americans were liberated, and they were able to partake in the national cake. His strong efforts on American ideals led to the freedom of the Black Americans and the abolishment of slavery (Wollard).

Fredrick Douglass's resilience and relentless efforts portray my determination towards my studies form the elementary level to my high school life. Despite the challenges, I keep working hard and studying hard to learn and attain excellent grades for each of my subjects. His service towards the members of the community is remarkable. During Summer and weekends, I spend most of my time in the elderly homes and orphanages spreading love to the less fortunate in society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this research has taught me that the native black Americans were exposed to harsh living conditions and lifestyles. They were deprived of their personal information, such as the birth date and attaining proper education. However, Fredrick Douglass fought against all the odds through his never die attitude and thirst for freedom. Fredrick Douglass has taught me that I can overcome any obstacle in my life. Whatever I desire is mine for the taking, all I need is will and determination.

Works Cited

Kennedy, Randall. "The Confounding Truth About Frederick Douglass." The Atlantic, 2018, https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2018/12/the-confounding-truth-about-frederick-douglass/573931/.

US History, US History. "Fredrick Douglass." History.Com, 2019, https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/frederick-douglass.

Wollard, Andrew. "To Raise Up a Nation: John Brown, Fredrick Douglass, And The Making of A Free Country." Civil War Book Review, vol 16, no. 4, 2014. Louisiana State University Libraries, doi:10.31390/cwbr.16.4.08.