Viewed from the genuine abolition ground, Mr. Lincoln seemed tardy, cold, dull, and indifferent; but measuring him by the sentiment of his country, a sentiment he was bound as a statesman to consult, he was swift, zealous, radical, and determined.
Frederick DouglassSlaves were expected to sing as well as to work. A silent slave was not liked, either by masters or overseers.
Frederick DouglassThe law on the side of freedom is of great advantage only when there is power to make that law respected.
Frederick DouglassWhere justice is denied, where poverty is enforced, . . . neither persons nor property will be safe.
Frederick DouglassThese dear souls came not to Sabbath school because it was popular to do so, nor did I teach them because it was reputable to be thus engaged. Every moment they spent in that school, they were liable to be taken up, and given thirty-nine lashes. They came because they wished to learn. Their minds had been starved by their cruel masters. They had been shut up in mental darkness. I taught them, because it was the delight of my soul to be doing something that looked like the bettering the condition of my race
Frederick Douglass