I have no accurate knowledge of my age, never having seen any authentic record containing it.

Now, take the Constitution according to its plain reading, and I defy the presentation of a single pro-slavery clause in it. On the other hand it will be found to contain principles and purposes, entirely hostile to the existence of slavery.

Poverty, ignorance and degradation are the combined evils, these constitute the social disease of the free colored people of the US.

I glory in the conflict, that I may hereafter exult in the victory. I know that victory is certain.

For it is not light that is needed, but fire; it is not the gentle shower, but thunder. We need the storm, the whirlwind, and the earthquake. The feeling in the nation must be quickened, the conscience of the nation must be roused, the propriety of the nation must be startled, the hypocrisy of the nation must be exposed: and its crimes against God and man must be denounced.

Some know the value of education by having it. I know it's value by not having it.

Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.