On this day in 1838, one of the most powerful voices for freedom in American history made a courageous leap toward liberty.
Frederick Douglass, then just 20 years old, escaped from slavery in Maryland using nothing but a borrowed sailor’s uniform, forged papers, and the skills he learned working in Baltimore’s shipyards. He boarded a train bound for Havre de Grace, Maryland, then passed through Delaware before reaching freedom in New York City.
Once in New York, Douglass found refuge with David Ruggles, a well-known Black abolitionist who helped him settle and begin a new life. This moment marked the beginning of Douglass’s lifelong mission: fighting for the abolition of slavery and advocating for human rights, equality, and justice.
“I felt as one might feel upon escape from a den of hungry lions.” – Frederick Douglass
After his escape, Douglass became:
- A world-renowned abolitionist orator
- A bestselling author of powerful slave narratives
- A publisher of The North Star newspaper
- An advisor to President Abraham Lincoln
- A passionate advocate for women’s rights and racial equality
His bravery and determination continue to inspire generations.
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