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Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom

by David W. Blight
S. & S. Oct. 2018. 912p. illus. notes. index. ISBN 9781416590316. $37.50; ebk. ISBN 9781416593881. BIOG
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OrangeReviewStarBlight (Class of 1954 Professor of American History and Director, Gilder Lehrman Ctr., Yale Univ.; Race and Reunion) has produced a comprehensive chronicle of Frederick Douglass (1818–95), abolitionist, orator, writer, and diplomat, using an exhaustive survey of existing research, including newspaper articles and family letters. Offering original insights into a man born on a plantation into the slave society of Maryland's Eastern Shore, the author presents Douglass as the oratorical and written voice of a generation who carried the fury and faith of African Americans to three continents throughout his varied public life. Blight also shares how Douglass went on to counsel U.S. presidents such as Ulysses S. Grant.
VERDICT This magnum opus surpasses previous singular biographies in heft and depth, establishing an essential text for students and educators seeking to understand Douglass's complex and expansive narrative. It will appeal to general audiences and specialists alike.
Reviewed by John Muller, Dist. of Columbia P.L. , Oct 15, 2018
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