Alternative ending of the book about Frederick Douglass Creative Essay
People tend to create legends to be inspired by. Frederick Douglass is, undoubtedly, one of the most inspirational figures in the history of the United States. However, it is possible to assume that his story had another ending. Perhaps, he could have lived his free life in a different way.
When Frederick Douglas came to a free state, he was quite at a loss as he had a different view of the place where people’s welfare did not depend on slavery. He expected people in the north to be poor and miserable and he regarded that poverty as “the necessary consequence of their being non-slaveholders” (Douglass 111).
However, the man was surprised to see that people in the north were healthier and wealthier there. He was also astonished to see that conditions colored people lived in were absolutely different. Douglass was amazed and happy to find out about the new world. Many good and kind people helped him find some job and reunite with his future wife.
Frederick Douglass also knew that the north was not a safe place for an escaped slave as colored people were “pursued by merciless men-hunters” (Douglass 112). Mr. David Ruggles helped Douglass in his hardest times in New York. The kind man also gave Frederick a valuable piece of advice to move to New Bedford. This was a new start for the escaped slave. He had to work very hard. He had to endure hostility. He did not have enough money. However, he did not have to give his money to Master Hugh.
Soon Douglass had to provide for his family as he soon had his little children. He was not afraid of hard work, but he still remembered about men-hunters and traitors even among colored people. Thus, Douglass remembered that there was one man of color, an escaped slave, who wanted to betray his fellows.
During a meeting of colored people which was called “Business of importance!” those who were there sentenced the traitor to death (Douglass 112). Though the traitor escaped no one ever heard of him. This mutual help, justice and empathy helped Frederick feel safer.
He also knew that men of color gathered and tried to work out strategies and policies to change the situation. Douglass knew that many people strived for abolition of slavery. There were leaflets and newspapers, there were meeting where people discussed their issues. Frederick shared similar views and he also sought for abolition of slavery.
However, he did not participate in the struggle as he was focused on his family. He knew that if something happened to him, his wife and kids could simply die. Thus, Douglas focused on his work. His persistence and diligence helped him earn respect. Those who knew him were eager to give him work and even white people (those who were aware of his qualities) were not hostile to him anymore. Douglass always had enough work and enough money. His family did not starve which was the most important.
Once he was approached by a man who asked whether Douglass wanted to take the “Liberator” (Douglass 114). Of course, he did not have money to spare, but he still became a subscriber. Douglass was inspired by the newspaper and he also attended a variety of meetings where he listened to speakers but never dared to speak. He was inspired by people like William Lloyd Garrison. Douglass heard a lot of stories and he had so much to say. Nonetheless, he kept silent as he was afraid of men-hunters.
He continued working hard and dreaming about a truly free country. When the war started he could not be aside. He fought for the north as he knew that southerners had to lose otherwise slavery would never be abolished.
He was wounded in one of risky operations and sent back home. He was a hero. When Douglass heard about abolition of slavery, he was with his family. Now he stopped being afraid. He blessed the names of those who made so much to end the disgraceful practice. Douglass worshiped Lincoln as well as Fred Johnson, an escaped slave who managed to become one of the most prominent abolitionists in the history of the USA.
After the Civil War hardships of Frederick Douglass came to an end. He started a venture with another veteran of the war. The business was quite successful and Douglass could now help many other less fortunate people. He still participated in a variety of gatherings of people of color as emancipation of black people was only the start of their struggle. There was so much injustice.
Frederick Douglass became one of the most prominent people of color in New Bedford. He donated to several organizations which fought for the rights of people of color. He even started speaking at meetings. His speeches were very inspirational as he told true stories.
Soon after his first speech, however, he was murdered. His murderers were never found. Nonetheless, the first speech of this man remains one of the most inspirational calls to continue the struggle for rights of people of color which are still studied during history classes.
Works Cited
Douglass, Frederick. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Written by Himself. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 2009. Print.
