Frederick Douglass Biography: Chapter 5

Note: Please click here for Chapter 4.

Chapter 5: Life in Europe

Publishing his autobiography raised Frederick's standing in the abolitionist movement, broadened his reach, and gave him more credibility. But with the attention came an increased risk of recapture under the Fugitive Slave Act, a federal law that mandated the return of escaped slaves to their owners and imposed penalties on anyone aiding their escape. Frederick decided that leaving the U.S. for Europe would be best for safety reasons.

The decision to leave, however, wasn't an easy one to make. He was a father of four now and the breadwinner for his family. Leaving meant the emotional pangs of separation from them, as he and Anna decided only Frederick would go. For Anna, who had already taken on many of the responsibilities of caring for the home and children as Frederick worked so much, this meant taking on all the responsibilities at home now.

Anna Murray Douglass