Special Issue Introduction: Commemorating 200 Years since Frederick Douglass's Birth

Abstract

The articles in this interdisciplinary special issue encourage attention to the rhetorical legacy of Frederick Douglass (1818–1895). These essays showcase not only Douglass's contributions to the African American oratorical tradition and U.S. public address, but also his ongoing importance to contemporary understandings of rhetorical advocacy, justice, and social critique. On the 200th anniversary of his birth, these articles demonstrate that Frederick Douglass's words and rhetorical style still have great meaning for leaders, activists, and protest movements.

Keywords:

• Frederick Douglass
• public address
• race
• race relations
• rhetoric