The New National Era served the black community, but Frederick Douglass also used the newspaper as a way to connect with the community. He would share stories and ideals pertaining to his own personal life. In a copy issued on June 13, 1872, Douglass writes to his readers explaining a personal incident that led to his brief absence from the paper. Douglass’ old home (which was currently occupied by his son-in-law) in Rochester, New York had been set on fire. The letter he writes to his readers gives a lot of insight Frederick Douglass as an influential African American. Once he was notified that his old home was on fire, he immediately went to it. Upon arrival, Frederick Douglass attempts to find a hotel. He was denied a room at the first two
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This paper served many African Americans, but took a toll on Frederick Douglass personally. He found himself being forced to completely immerse himself in it. Douglass admits in his third biography that he was not completely comfortable taking over the paper, but did it due to the pressure of his colleagues. “The knowledge of the toil and anxiety which such a relation to a public journal must impose, caused me much reluctance and hesitation; nevertheless, I yielded to the wishes of my friends and counsellors, went to Washington.”12 This paper was not something Frederick Douglass necessarily wanted to do, yet he did it for the great good of others. His supporters felt her was best for the position and wanted him to so he did it despite his own personal reservations. This was the life of elite African Americans. Their popularity, abilities, and skill often called for them to lead others and take on great responsibilities. Also, unlikely the average African American, Douglass had more financial backing in order to publish this paper. The New National Era would him to nine to ten thousand dollars, but he would not care because “the journal was valuable while it lasted”.13 Douglass did an amazing job with the paper even though he was willing to confess that it was not something he truly had a desire to
This paper served many African Americans, but took a toll on Frederick Douglass personally. He found himself being forced to completely immerse himself in it. Douglass admits in his third biography that he was not completely comfortable taking over the paper, but did it due to the pressure of his colleagues. “The knowledge of the toil and anxiety which such a relation to a public journal must impose, caused me much reluctance and hesitation; nevertheless, I yielded to the wishes of my friends and counsellors, went to Washington.”12 This paper was not something Frederick Douglass necessarily wanted to do, yet he did it for the great good of others. His supporters felt her was best for the position and wanted him to so he did it despite his own personal reservations. This was the life of elite African Americans. Their popularity, abilities, and skill often called for them to lead others and take on great responsibilities. Also, unlikely the average African American, Douglass had more financial backing in order to publish this paper. The New National Era would him to nine to ten thousand dollars, but he would not care because “the journal was valuable while it lasted”.13 Douglass did an amazing job with the paper even though he was willing to confess that it was not something he truly had a desire to