As a young man, he experienced the brutality of slavery firsthand. As an outspoken leader of the abolitionist movement, he became one of the most powerful voices in American history. Frederick Douglass inadvertently found his calling while giving an impromptu speech at an antislavery meeting in 1841. As a former slave, he quickly became not only a persuasive speaker, but also a poignant symbol of freedom. His insightful and eloquent lectures and his tireless efforts to educate the public about the realities of slavery significantly furthered the abolitionist cause. This inspiring BIOGRAPHY program chronicles Douglass's remarkable life: from his childhood in slavery to his crucial work on behalf of former slaves following the Civil War. Rare photographs and extensive interviews with leading historians offer a revealing portrait of this extraordinary man.

Originally released by A&E Networks, 2000. Streaming video file encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on May 16, 2015.

Frederick Douglass and the Civil War (3:12); --Frederick Douglass and Slavery (6:24); -- Frederick Douglass and Freedom (4:57); -- Frederick Douglass and the Abolitionist Movement (2:50); -- Douglass and the 100 Conventions Project (3:26); -- Frederick Douglass, Publisher (2:55); -- John Brown and Harper's Ferry (3:21); -- Civil War (4:31); -- Douglass Recruits African American Soldiers (3:04); -- Frederick Douglass' Final Years (7:11); -- Frederick Douglass Video (2:50); .