Summary: After reading and listening to Fredrick Douglass’s speech, I can conclude that Douglass is arguing about how the Fourth of July is a mockery to the enslaved African Americans. To white people, the Fourth of July signifies pride for one’s country, liberation, and independence. However, this day of celebration and joyfulness means nothing for the slaves. According to Douglass, everything that America stands for is just a web of lies and a façade to those enslaved. Douglass mentions that America is always thought of as a nation of promises, hopes, aspirations, justice, etc. However, these are just false claims because, beneath the façade, there is a world of pain and suffering for those of color. African Americans have no freedom or respect. They are promised nothing, which is what Douglass is trying to argue. Black people see America and the Fourth of July as a country with fake promises.
Quote: According to Fredrick Douglass, he argues that “what, to the American slave, is your 4th of July? I answer; a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim. To him, your celebration is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license; your national greatness, swelling vanity; your sounds of rejoicing are empty and heartless; your denunciations of tyrants, brass fronted impudence; your shouts of liberty and equality, hollow mockery…. at this very hour” (Douglass 10).
Paraphrase: What does your Fourth of July represent to enslaved African Americans? For me and all of my people, this is the day that we are victims of despicable acts and oppression. To us, this is no day for cheers and joyfulness; it’s only your way of showing your growing selfishness; your celebrations are meaningless and conceited; there is only lies and deceit. There is really no country on the planet guilty of actions more alarming and frightening at this very moment. (Douglass 10).
Response: This quote demonstrates the issue that Douglass is trying to fight because he wants Americans to rethink their principles of freedom and liberty. He’s shows how America is full of flaws and false claims. The Fourth of July is a symbolism of independence for regular Americans, but African Americans are constantly facing oppression and aren’t given any respect. This quote along with his entire speech was meant to show the true colors of America, and it was a way for white people to see their wrongdoings.
I love your summary–it is a great way of capturing what Douglass says. Nice work with the quote too!