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Comparing Douglas And Maya Angelou's Speech

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Both African American men and women have had the strength to put up with racial comments and slurs they have been told all their lives. In the speech, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” by Frederick Douglass and the poem, “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou, are perfect examples to show how white Americans used to treat the African American people. White Americans back then, and even in modern day, would talk down about them, hoping to break down their self confidence even more than it already has been. This may be true to others, but to Douglass and Angelou, they do not let the heartless words of others define who they are as an individual. Frederick Douglass’ speech talks about how poorly slaves were treated decades ago. His speech directly reflects discrimination and how people are just as hideous and revolting as they used to be. Frederick Douglass once stated, “This Fourth July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn.” (pg. 3) This shows that even in modern day, the Fourth of July to an American slave is no celebration, it being a time to mourn and reflect on the tragedies that occurred. On the other hand, Douglass goes on to mention, “For …show more content…

Just like Douglass’ speech, Angelou’s poem greatly reflects discrimination and just how little people’s opinions about her do not mean anything. Maya Angelou one stated, “Up from a past that’s rooted in pain I rise.” (pg. 3) She mentions that even if she may come from a past layered in gut-wrenching pain, no matter what has been thrown at her, she will look beyond them. Angelou also mentions, “Bringing the gifts thay my ancestors gave, I am the dream and hope of the slave.” (pg. 3) She is able to bring freedom and equality to the African American people, even if the white Americans do not agree with it. She is the voice of her people and will not stop until discrimination is

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