Comparing The Works Of Blanche Bruce And Frederick Douglass

During the Reconstruction Era, various African-American/Abolitionist leaders came forward to express their thoughts on the role of freedmen in the post-Civil War society. Specifically, two formative figures who portrayed their advocacy were Blanche Bruce and Frederick Douglass. Blanche Bruce, a former slave, was the first African-American to serve a full term in the United States Senate. While serving the Senate, Bruce advocated for the rights of minorities and illustrated the issues of his black constituents. Frederick Douglass, on the other hand, was a prominent leader in the abolitionist movement after escaping slavery. He led a life of advocacy writing various novels. One major component in the work of both of these men was their dedication

In both Bruce’s speech and Douglass’ article, both advocate for the acknowledgement of African-Americans in society. Towards the middle of Bruce’s speech, he states, “We determined to wait until such time as an appeal to the good sense and justice of the American people could be made.” This state provides a similar message to that of Douglass, also stating, “…based upon loyalty, liberty, and equality, must be determined one way or the other…” Both authors believe in the power African-Americans to rise above the adversities placed upon them by the oppression the South and society. Furthering the points regarding the realization of African-Americans, both leaders advocated for faith to be placed upon African-Americans by Congress and society. Bruce expressed his viewpoint regarding faith in the statement, “…they [African-Americans] have attested in blood their courage as well as a love of liberty…” Bruce, in this account, believes that the patriotic nature of African-Americans reigns strong despite the oppression bearing down on them. Douglass provided a similar message as well with, “…you have the conditions, not out of which slavery will again grow…” While this message was slightly different (as it portrays the strength of the freedmen,) it portrays the faith in African-Americans to stand up for their rights and not to succumb to pressure from ex-slave owners. These similarities prove great details into the

For Bruce, he advocated in his Senate speech for a more just voting system. While introducing his speech, Bruce gave the following statement, “The evidence in hand and accessible will show beyond peradventure that in many parts of the State corrupt and violent influences were brought to bear upon the registrars of voters…” Bruce claims that the voting systems has become corrupt with time and, thus, changing the stance of the country. Douglass, in his article, does not mention this claim. Though, Douglass does claim in his article a viewpoint that Bruce does not tackle: the needs for a consistent government. In his speech, Douglass introduces what is necessary for a compatible government for the people, “…no republic is safe that tolerates a privileged class, or denies to any of its citizens equal rights and equal means to maintain them…” Douglass’ sheer mention of equal right provides a stark contrast to Bruce’s speech as it mentions equal rights at all. Also, it creates a deeper argument that develops for the remainder of Douglass’ article. These contrasts create entirely different works from