Question 1

How did Douglass’s decision to support the Republican Party after the Civil War reflect his understanding of the limitations and opportunities he faced as a Black leader in postwar America?

Answer

He believed holding political office would allow him to influence policy directly.

He viewed all political parties as corrupt and distanced himself from them.

He concluded that abandoning the Republican Party for the Democratic Party would offer better opportunities for advancing civil rights.

He recognized that his greatest influence came from using his voice and pen to shape public opinion within the Republican Party.