Frederick Douglass & His Irish Connections

Frederick Douglass (1818–1895) was a renowned African American abolitionist, orator, publisher and author—reportedly the most photographed American of the 19th century. Recently escaped from slavery, Douglass arrived in Dublin in 1845, staying four months to publish his first autobiography, deliver lectures, and meet activists like Daniel O'Connell. He later made four visits to Belfast in 1846. We'll explore Dublin sites tied to his time here, set against political change: relief for Irish Catholics, yet widespread poverty and a famine gripping the countryside. Douglass was deeply moved by Ireland's underclass and those working to relieve it. Readers are advised to check with the organiser before relying on the details published here.