Slaves sing most when they are most unhappy. The songs of the slave represent the sorrows of his heart; and he is relieved by them, only as an aching heart is relieved by its tears.
I recognize the Republican Party as the sheet anchor of the colored man's political hopes and the ark of his safety.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Frederick Douglass viewed the Republican Party as essential for the political future and safety of African Americans.
In this quote, Frederick Douglass emphasizes the crucial role that the Republican Party plays in safeguarding the political aspirations and well-being of African Americans. He likens the party to a 'sheet anchor' and an 'ark,' suggesting that it provides stability and protection in a turbulent political landscape, indicating the trust he placed in the party during a time when African Americans were fighting for their rights and recognition in society.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be referenced during a discussion about the historical role of political parties in advocating for civil rights.
More from Frederick Douglass
All quotes βWe may explain success mainly by one word and that word is WORK! WORK!! WORK!!! WORK!!!!
I do not think much of the good luck theory of self-made men. It is worth but little attention and has no practical value.
To suppress free speech is a double wrong. It violates the rights of the hearer as well as those of the speaker.
The Constitution is a GLORIOUS LIBERTY DOCUMENT. Read its preamble, consider it purposes. Is slavery among them? Is it at the gateway? or is it in the temple? it is neither.
Find out just what any people will quietly submit to and you have the exact measure of the injustice and wrong which will be imposed on them.
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A government, the constitution of which renders it unfit to be trusted with all the powers which a free people ought to delegate to any government, would be an unsafe and improper depositary of the NATIONAL INTERESTS.
They say, oh, letβs have multiparty politics. Letβs have different parties change and be in charge of the Government. Is it that simple? You vote in a Division Three government, not a Division One government, and the whole economy will just subside within three, four years. Finished.
I am not a member of any organized political party. I am a Democrat.
A man without a vote is man without protection.
Whether they be young in spirit, or young in age, the members of the Democratic Party must never lose that youthful zest for new ideas and for a better world, which has made us great.