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Frederick Douglass’s Speech on American Slavery
“Love of God, Love of Man, Love of Country”
“They have had to contend not only with skillful politicians, with a deeply prejudiced and pro-slavery community, but with eminent Divines, Doctors of Divinity, and Bishops. Instead of encouraging them as friends, they have acted as enemies.” — Frederick Douglass
When learning about historical figures, I find it better to read their words than to heed their reputations. Douglass points out the hypocrites in this lesser-known speech, especially the white clergy who supported enslavement rather than ending it. Enjoy!
“I like radical measures, whether adopted by Abolitionists or slaveholders. I do not know but I like them better when adopted by the latter. Hence I look with pleasure upon the movements of Mr. Calhoun and his party. I rejoice at any movement in the slave States with reference to this system of Slavery. Any movement there will attract attention to the system — a system, as Junius once said to Lord Granby, “which can only pass without condemnation as it passes without observation.” I am anxious to have it seen of all men: hence I am delighted to see any…
