Frederick Douglass: “They have had among them for centuries a peculiar institution, and…”

On the record

They have had among them for centuries a peculiar institution, and that peculiar institution has stamped them as a peculiar people.

Said by

Frederick Douglass

Source

He notes that the institution of slavery has profoundly affected the character of those who perpetuate it.

More from Frederick Douglass

Jan 1, 1881

Slavery had no recognition of fathers, as none of families.

Jan 1, 1881

The friendless and hungry boy, in his extremest need, found himself in the strong protecting arms of his mother.

Jan 1, 1881

The day we celebrate is preëminently the colored man’s day.

Jan 1, 1881

The anti-slavery platform had performed its work, and my voice was no longer needed.

Frederick Douglass: “They have had among them for centuries a peculiar institution, and that peculiar institution has stamped them as a…”