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Frederick Douglass
912 pages, 2020
A bold, moving portrait of a towering figure in American history, and an astonishing story of courage and endurance, Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom is the winner of the Pulitzer Prize in History.
Over his long life (1818–98), Frederick Douglass was one of the most influential Americans—perhaps second only to Abraham Lincoln. He was an escaped slave who became the greatest orator of his day and one of the leading abolitionists and writers of his era. In later life he became a statesman; Ulysses Grant gave him a government job.
David W. Blight's book gives us a deep insight into the life of Frederick Douglass, a former slave who became a leading abolitionist. It's a great chance to explore the struggles and triumphs of this influential figure.
One key takeaway from the book is the importance of education. Douglass taught himself to read and write, which was a turning point in his life. It's a reminder that knowledge can be a powerful tool for change.
Blight shows us Douglass's relentless fight for equality. He was not just an abolitionist, but also a feminist who believed in equal rights for all. This book encourages us to look into our own beliefs and actions towards equality.
Douglass's autobiographies played a significant role in shaping public opinion about slavery. This book encourages us to see the power of personal stories in influencing societal change.
Blight doesn't shy away from showing the complexities of Douglass's life. From his relationships to his political views, we get to see a multifaceted portrait of this historical figure. It's a reminder that everyone, even heroes, have their complexities.
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David Blight's biography of Frederick Douglass is a monumental work about a monumental figure in American history. It is a beautifully written, detailed and insightful account of Douglass's life and work.
Henry Louis Gates Jr. - Literary CriticDavid Blight's Frederick Douglass is a definitive, deeply researched, and beautifully written biography of one of America's greatest figures.
Eric Foner - HistorianDavid Blight's Frederick Douglass is a masterful and insightful exploration of Douglass's complex character and enduring legacy.
Ibram X. Kendi - AuthorDavid Blight's Frederick Douglass is a compelling, comprehensive, and nuanced portrait of a man who was arguably the most important African American of the nineteenth century.
Annette Gordon-Reed - HistorianDavid Blight's Frederick Douglass is a brilliant, moving, and inspiring biography of a man whose life and work continues to resonate and inspire today.
Ta-Nehisi Coates - WriterRecommendations
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