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Frederick Douglass and the Photograph

The most photographed American man of the 19th century, Frederick Douglass fully utilized the daguerreotype and the recent invention of photography. By portraying himself as majestic and dignified, he made it undeniable for 19th-century viewers that he, an African American man, was a human being. This module examines how Douglass used the power of his image to challenge racist stereotypes of African Americans, and demonstrate the importance of representation. Students will analyze primary source images of Frederick Douglass.

Essential Question:

How does media and technology influence public opinion, and impact individual beliefs and attitudes?

Thinking Questions:

  • How did the new technology of photography combat racism and negative stereotypes depicted?
  • Why did Frederick Douglass intentionally have his photograph taken so often?
  • Why did Frederick Douglass feel that photography could be a mechanism to end slavery and bring about equality?
  • How did photography support democracy?
  • How did Frederick Douglass use photography to retain a sense of humanity in the face of struggle?



Analyze the photograph, Frederick Douglass.

  • What do you notice first? Describe what else you see.
  • Is the creation date listed in the bibliographic record?
  • Why do you think this image was made? What might have been the creator’s purpose?
  • What do you think the creator wanted the audience to think or feel?
  • What was happening during the time period this image represents?
  • Does the arrangement or presentation (lighting, angle, etc.) of the details affect how the audience might think or feel? Explain your answer.

Analyze the photograph, Frederick Douglass.

  • What do you notice first? Describe what else you see.
  • Is the creation date listed in the bibliographic record?
  • What type of image is this (photo, painting, illustration, poster, etc.)?
  • What tools might have been used to create this image?
  • What do you feel when looking at this image?
  • How does this image reflect Frederick Douglass beliefs about the power of imagery? Explain your answer.

Analyze the image, Head-and-shoulders portrait of Frederick Douglass.

  • What do you notice first? Describe what else you see.
  • Is the creation date listed in the bibliographic record?
  • Why do you think this image was made? What might have been the creator’s purpose?
  • What do you think the creator wanted the audience to think or feel?
  • What was happening during the time period this image represents?
  • What role do you think imagery had in the abolition movement? Explain your answer.