Title: Colored American - June 1, 1839
Speaker or author: editor
Newspaper or publication: Colored American (1837 - 1842)
The writer tells his readers that protest and appeals for justice should be expected from African Americans. He encourages them to continue, yet to approach this effort as "enlightened, prudent, and modest" people.
Description of file(s): one scanned newspaper column
Title: Frederick Douglass' Paper - April 11, 1854
Speaker or author: Watkins, William J.
Newspaper or publication: Frederick Douglass' Paper (1851 - 18??)
The writer expresses his views on what it takes to be a reformer in an oppressive society.
Description of file(s): one scanned, two columned, newspaper page
Title: Frederick Douglass' Paper - april 14, 1854
Speaker or author: Watkins, William J.
Newspaper or publication: Frederick Douglass' Paper (1851 - 18??)
The writer calls for an "utter overthrow of 'Slave Power'" during this time of social crisis. He comments on the formation of a "League of Freedom" and the timeliness of such an effort. He calls for action; and ends his commentary with, "Then let all the foes of Oppression unite, and, in solid phalanx, march to the battlefield, and whip the enemy."
Description of file(s): three scanned newspaper pages (five columns)
Title: Frederick Douglass' Paper - December 8, 1854
Speaker or author: Watkins, William J.
Newspaper or publication: Frederick Douglass' Paper (1851 - 18??)
The writer continues his answer to the question "What have the Abolitionists done?" that he began in a previous issue. He explains that abolitionists have kept the focus on the issue of slavery by agitation, speeches, aid to fugitives, and an untiring devotion to the cause of freedom. The have suffered imprisonment, shame, and personal attacks for what they believe is right.
Description of file(s): three scanned newspaper pages (five columns)
Title: Voice of the Fugitive - November 5, 1851
Speaker or author: editor
Newspaper or publication: Voice of the Fugitive (1851 - 1852)
Brief note about actions being taken by members of the Free Soil party in Massacusetts to overturn the Fugitive Slave Law.
Description of file(s): one scanned newspaper column
Title: Weekly Anglo-African - May 4, 1861
Speaker or author: editor
Newspaper or publication: Weekly Anglo-African (1859 - 1862)
The writer points out that progress is a cyclical process, not a linear one. In this, progress made through Anti-Slavery agitation is taking the form of political action, of a seemingly quiet revolution that is now coming to the surface in this civil war. He reminds his readers that their actions now shape the future for the entire race.
Description of file(s): two scanned, two columned, newspaper pages