Understanding the Role of Religion in Slavery

Frederick Douglass recounts his life under Master Thomas in St. Michaels, highlighting the cruelty and hypocrisy of slaveholders, especially those who professed religious piety. He describes the harsh conditions, including hunger and mistreatment, and the failed attempt to educate slaves. Douglass also details the brutal treatment of a disabled slave girl, Henny, and his eventual transfer to Edward Covey, a man notorious for breaking slaves.

What significant life change did Frederick Douglass experience in March 1832?

• He began his education.

• He went to live with Master Thomas Auld.

• He started a new job.

• He moved to a new city.

How did Douglass describe his experience of hunger under Master Thomas?

• He was always well-fed.

• He experienced hunger for the first time in years.

• He had more food than he needed.

• He was given gourmet meals.

What was a notable trait of Captain Auld's character?

• Bravery

• Meanness

• Generosity

• Wisdom

What effect did Captain Auld's religious conversion have on his behavior towards slaves?

• He became more cruel.

• He emancipated all his slaves.

• He stopped practicing religion.

• He became more humane.

How did religion play a role in Captain Auld's treatment of slaves?

• It justified his cruelty.

• It had no effect.

• It made him kinder.

• It led to the emancipation of slaves.

Who was Mr. Cookman and what was his significance?

• A cruel overseer

• A preacher who showed sympathy to slaves

• A slaveholder who freed all his slaves

• A teacher at the Sabbath school

What was the outcome of the attempt to establish a Sabbath school?

• It was successful and lasted for years.

• It led to the emancipation of slaves.

• It was shut down after three meetings.

• It was ignored by the community.

What was the reason for the cruelty towards Henny?

• She was a new slave.

• She tried to escape.

• She was almost helpless due to burns.

• She was rebellious.

What was the main reason for Douglass's transfer to Edward Covey?

• He was caught stealing.

• He wanted to learn farming.

• He was unsuitable for Master Thomas's purposes.

• He requested a change.