Political Quotes

Frederick Douglass: In learning to read, therefore, I am not sure that I do not owe quite as much to the opposition of my master, as to the…

On the recordJanuary 1, 1855
In learning to read, therefore, I am not sure that I do not owe quite as much to the opposition of my master, as to the kindly assistance of my amiable mistress.
Said by
Frederick Douglass

Editor's note · Context

Douglass reflects on the paradoxical role his master's opposition played in his education, alongside his mistress's initial kindness.

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