Frederick Douglass was an instrumental figure in American history. Douglass was a key player in ending slavery in the United States and fought for equal rights for African Americans. Douglass' reach and influence extend beyond his life. He motivates people of all generations to take action and work with communities to create social change.

This Learning Lab explores a few of the many roles taken on by Douglass during his life. Douglass was a multi-dimensional, complex, electric individual that brought people together to fight for a common cause. He was intelligent and used his connections and understanding of technology to further his mission.

How can you personify Frederick Douglass? In what ways can you take charge in your community to inspire change and build a better world?

This Learning Lab collection was created by Traci Cheek and Kyra Palmbush, students in the summer 2022 Smithsonian Digital Learning and Engagement Internship, in collaboration with Emerson Collective and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service | Smithsonian Affiliations (SITES|SA). #SAintern