Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

Question

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

In the first paragraph Douglass writes, "By far the larger part of the slaves know as little of their ages as horses know of theirs, "What does Douglass mean in this statement? Then he states, "and it is the wish of most masters to keep their slaves thus ignorant." Why would most slaves masters want this?

Asked by Shanta P #477413 on 11/6/2015 4:31 AM

Last updated by Aslan on 11/6/2015 5:24 AM

Answers 1

Add Yours

Answered by Aslan on 11/6/2015 5:24 AM

Douglas knew that keeping slaves ignorant was an effective way to control them. With education comes power and responsibility. If slaves could read and write they could break the shackles of slavery. They could express themselves, organize themselves and empower each other. Slave owners made a point of keeping their slaves in ignorance.

Answers 1

Log In To Your GradeSaver Account

Create Your GradeSaver Account