Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

An Apple Books Classic edition.

Self-educated speaker and author. 1872 vice-presidential nominee. The 19th century’s most photographed man. Frederick Douglass, an enslaved man, went on to become one of the most celebrated freedom fighters in U.S. history. His autobiography, published in 1845, maps out his life story in vivid, often heartbreaking detail.

After learning the alphabet from a slaveholder’s wife, Douglass covertly learned to read with the help of some white children in town. Once he was sold to a slaveholder known for his cruelty, Douglass risked his life to escape north, disguised as a free Black sailor. Ten years later, that daring escape was almost for naught when the release of his book brought him attention that could have led to his recapture. Douglass initially fled the country, but returned when his supporters raised the funds to secure his status as a free man. For the rest of his life, Douglass continued to speak out against slavery, becoming famous for his impassioned speeches and incredible life story.