Frederick Douglass

Why did Frederick Douglass never know his exact date of birth?

• Because his parents died

• Because he was a slave and slave birth dates were not recorded

• Because he did not care about his birthday

• Because he lived very far from his family

Answer explanation

Frederick Douglass never knew his exact date of birth because he was a slave, and the birth dates of slaves were not recorded. This lack of documentation was common for enslaved individuals.

How did Frederick Douglass learn to read despite his master forbidding him to get an education?

• He went to school in secret

• Another slave taught him

• He taught himself by observing others

• He bought books secretly

• He never learned to read

Answer explanation

Frederick Douglass learned to read by observing others, despite his master's prohibition. He keenly watched how people read and practiced on his own, demonstrating his determination to gain knowledge and education.

What event marked a turning point in Frederick's life when he was 16 years old?

• He escaped from the plantation

• He fought against his master during a beating and won

• He published his first book

• He married Anna Murray

Answer explanation

At 16, Frederick fought back against his master during a beating and won, marking a significant turning point in his life. This act of defiance was crucial in shaping his identity and resolve against slavery.

How did Frederick Douglass escape to freedom?

• He fled alone on foot

• He disguised himself as a free black sailor with borrowed documents

• He was helped by other slaves

• He bought his freedom

Answer explanation

Frederick Douglass escaped to freedom by disguising himself as a free black sailor and using borrowed documents. This clever ruse allowed him to evade capture and reach safety.

What did Frederick Douglass do after gaining his freedom?

• He retired and lived quietly

• He became a preacher and activist against slavery

• He returned to work on the plantation

• He emigrated to another country

Answer explanation

After gaining his freedom, Frederick Douglass became a prominent preacher and activist against slavery, using his voice to advocate for abolition and civil rights, rather than retiring or returning to a plantation.

What was the title of his first autobiography?

• My Life as a Slave

• Story of a Slave

• Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave

• Memories of Freedom

Answer explanation

The correct title of Frederick Douglass's first autobiography is "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave." This work details his experiences and is a significant piece of American literature.

What role did Frederick Douglass play during the Civil War?

• He was a soldier

• He was an advisor to President Abraham Lincoln

• He was a spy

• He did not participate in the war

Answer explanation

Frederick Douglass was a prominent abolitionist and played a crucial role as an advisor to President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, advocating for the enlistment of Black soldiers and the emancipation of enslaved people.