What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?

By: Frederick Douglass

Narrated by: Amir Abdullah

In 1852, Frederick Douglass, former slave and, by then, a leading figure in the abolitionist movement was asked by the Rochester Ladies' Anti-Slavery Association to address the group for their July 4th celebration at Corinthian Hall in Rochester, New York.

Delivered, in fact, on the 5th of July, the speech caused an immediate sensation and swiftly became a seminal rallying cry of the abolitionist movement in America. The audience in Rochester included none other than President Millard Fillmore (along with a group of politicians from Washington) as well as some of the most important leaders of the abolitionist movement at the time.

Through the years, Douglass' powerful words have only grown in stature, resonance, and importance. His timeless message and elegant prose have made this speech - here presented in its unabridged, original format - one of the greatest orations in history.

Public Domain (P)2020 SoundCraft Audiobooks

Inspiring!

This is a classic patriotic speech. That reminds Americans why we fought for our freedom. Sound the alarm of the injustice causing hovac in our country.

The blistering critique of the country.

I thought the narration was way too performative, competing with the eloquence of the rhetoric, which needed no extra theatrics.

Excellent Speech 💪🏽

This should be a required listen for all people, especially those of African decent. Mr. Douglas verbalizes the challenging duality of being black and American.

Excellent impassioned performance

I felt Douglass words as I listened to this. I recommend to anyone who wants to understand American history from the perspective of Black Americans.

I loved it

I loved this speech. Frederick Douglas correctly called out Americans for not standing up to slavery. everyone should listen to this.

Moved to tears

I was on the edge of my seat, devouring every word. The readers passion, and dedication to the work, rose as did the author's.

Powerful

Very powerful in 2024, I can only imagine how powerful it was when originally given.

The oratory is authentic and outstanding.

Felt like I was listening to the actual Frederick Douglass! Beautifully done! Everyone should both learn from and has their inner selves opened.

Excellent!

Very well performed and timely to hear on today, July 4th. Should be required listening or reading in all middle or high schools!

Well Narrated

Frederick Douglass wrote a great, meaningful, and relevant speech that was not only appropriate for the time but also applicable to what's happening today in our nation. The narrator did an awesome job placing the listener back when this speech was originally shared.