Composite Nation

“The voice of civilization speaks an unmistakable language against the isolation of families, nations and races, and pleads for composite nationality as essential to her triumphs.” —Frederick Douglass Renowned activist and orator Frederick Douglass delivered his “Composite Nation” speech throughout the country from 1869-1875, sharing his ardent vision of a future America that would draw strength from diversity. Central to the speech is Douglass’s unambiguous support for Chinese immigration and citizenship. Other then-radical ideas examined in “Composite Nation”—universal human rights, religious liberty, and more—continue to resonate with modern activists. This edition of Douglass's famous speech includes an introduction by David W. Blight, the author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom and annotated editions of Douglass’s first two autobiographies. Paperback.