Frederick Douglass (3-5)

Frederick Douglass was a brave and powerful leader who worked to end slavery and help people gain freedom. He was born enslaved in Maryland around 1817 or 1818, and life was very hard for him. Even though enslaved people were not allowed to learn to read, Frederick secretly continued his education because he believed learning could help him change his life.

As a young man, Frederick planned a careful escape and reached New York, where he became free. He soon began speaking publicly about his experiences, and his powerful speeches helped many people understand why slavery was wrong. He also wrote a famous book about his life and started an antislavery newspaper called The North Star. Douglass helped freedom seekers through the Underground Railroad and shared ideas with President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War. Later in his life, he held important government jobs, including serving as an ambassador to Haiti.

Today, Frederick Douglass is remembered as one of the greatest leaders in American history.

New Jersey Student Learning Standards:

• 6.1.5.HistoryCC.4 – Describe the influence of individuals and groups on political, social, and cultural life.

• 6.1.5.HistorySE.1 – Examine how human rights are protected or denied in various societies.

• 6.1.5.HistoryUP.6 – Compare the contributions of individuals and groups to United States history.

• 6.1.5.CivicsPI.3 – Evaluate how individuals can work together to improve their communities.