Frederick Douglass was an American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman. After escaping from slavery in Maryland, he became a national leader of the abolitionist movement in Massachusetts and New York, becoming famous for his oratory and incisive antislavery writings.

When did Douglass know his exact age?

Frederick Douglass does not know his true age or date of birth because he is a slave. He also states that none of the slaves he has ever met could not tell of their birthday either.

Why did Frederick Douglass chose February 14 as his birthday?

Although Douglass' actual birthdate is unknown, he chose February 14 as the day to celebrate his birth, recalling that his mother called him her “Little Valentine.” Explore our teaching collection related to this important African-American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman.