Frederick Douglass, 1818 – 1895

Frederick Douglass, 1818 – 1895

Abolitionist

Frederick Douglass is arguably the most important black leader of 19th century American history due to his impactful writings, abolitionist work, and social activism – but the core of his convictions were rooted in his deep Christian faith. As a teenager, Douglass was discipled by a free black couple as he grappled his way towards salvation. It was especially challenging for Douglass to reconcile the Christianity of the Bible with the religion that was preached by the pro-slavery church of America.

The Lord began to stir the revelation of His justice and His disdain for oppression in Douglass’ heart, and with the voice of a prophet Douglass began speaking and writing about how the bondage of slavery and the oppressive powers of white supremacy were incompatible with the God of the Bible.

By the time Douglass passed away, he had delivered thousands of speeches, published three books, founded and edited newspapers, met with President Abraham Lincoln to lobby for emancipation, and championed the cause of African American civil and political equality after the Civil War.

“I love the religion of Christianity - which cometh from above - which is a pure, peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of good fruits, and without hypocrisy.”

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