Greducator’s narration of “The Internal Slave Trade,” an extract from an oration given by Frederick Douglass in Rochester, NY, on July 5, 1952, as it appears in the seventh section of the appendix of My Bondage and My Freedom, by Frederick Douglass (1818-1895). Other sources consider this extract, like the previous section of the appendix of this book, to be part of Douglass’ “What To the Slave is the Fourth of July?” This narration may be used, with attribution, for non-commercial educational purposes. All other rights reserved. The book itself exists in the public domain in the United States and can be freely accessed here: [ Ссылка ] and here: [ Ссылка ].

Written in 1855 (ten years after his first autobiography, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass), Frederick Douglass’ second autobiography, My Bondage and My Freedom, relates more richly his life under enslavement, his escape, and some of his subsequent experiences.

Frederick Douglass was born under enslavement in Maryland, U.S.A., probably in 1818; and endured cruelty and oppression under his enslavers until he escaped farther north to a free life as a young man. He became a respected American writer, lecturer, and statesman, who advocated for the abolition of slavery, for racial equality, and for women's rights.

Please note: The text of this book contains the word "Negro/negro," (not the Spanish pronunciation, but rather the American English pronunciation, meaning "Black” or “Black person") which, because it was considered respectful at the time, remains intact in the narration. However, please be aware that the word "Negro" as described here is no longer considered appropriate for everyday use. Also note, the text relates of this book contains graphic themes in relation to the practice of slavery and racial discrimination and their attendant cruelties.

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