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what to the slave is the fourth of july pdf ?

### What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?

The Fourth of July is one of the most significant dates in American history, celebrating the nation’s independence. It is a day filled with parades, fireworks, and festivities, symbolizing freedom and liberty. But what does this day represent for those who have historically been denied these very liberties? This question was poignantly asked by Frederick Douglass in his renowned speech, **”What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?”**, delivered on July 5, 1852.

Frederick Douglass, an abolitionist, social reformer, orator, writer, and statesman, was born into slavery and escaped to become a prominent figure in the abolishment of slavery and the fight for social justice. His speech, which can be found in various formats including PDFs from reputable sources like [American Classical Library](https://americainclass.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Douglass-FullText.pdf) and [Academia.edu](https://www.academia.edu/30818137/What_to_the_Slave_is_the_Fourth_of_July), challenges the notion of patriotism and citizenship in America when confronted with the stark reality of slavery.

### A Day of Contradiction

Douglass’s speech begins with a powerful, introspective tone. He addresses the audience, acknowledging his nervousness and the gravity of his message: “He who could address this audience without a quailing sensation, has stronger nerves than I have.”

He posits, “What, to the American slave, is your Fourth of July?” and answers with stark clarity: “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.”

### The Double Standards of Freedom

Douglass argues that while Americans boast about their independence and celebrate their freedom, they overlook the irony of denying these same freedoms to others. He posits that the Declaration of Independence’s promise of “all men are created equal” is a hollow declaration when applied inequitably.

“He is compelled to receive all this with an apparent and professed relish. He is accustomed to hear all this with a listener ear, for twenty-five years of his life. Yet, alack! he utters not a word ‘ain anent’ and that is all.”

### A Call to Action

The speech is not just a critique but also a call to action. Douglass implores his audience to see the hypocrisy of celebrating liberty while enslaving others. He calls for a more inclusive understanding of freedom—one that extends to all, regardless of race or station.

“The Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution was designed to prevent just such an act from going unnoticed and unpunished.”

### Relevance Today

Frederick Douglass’s speech remains relevant today, as discussions about racial justice and equality continue to shape the national narrative. His words remind us that true freedom is not just a legal declaration but a lived experience that must be extended to all.

### Conclusion

**”What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?”** is a timeless piece that challenges Americans to confront the darker aspects of their history and to strive for a more just and equal society. While the speech is available in various formats, including PDFs from sources like [Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:What_to_the_Slave_Is_the_Fourth_of_July.pdf) and [Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History](https://www.gilderlehrman.org/sites/default/files/inline-pdfs/douglass_july_4_speech.pdf), its message transcends digital boundaries and should be a part of every American’s consciousness.

As we continue to celebrate the Fourth of July, let us heed Douglass’s words and work towards a future where the promise of freedom and equality is truly extended to all.