Frederick Douglass (c. 1847-1852)
In history, Frederick Douglass will be remembered as history detailed his escape from slavery in Maryland to be a forerunner for those who “didn’t have a voice.” Douglass was by far one of the greatest abolitionists of all time. The daguerreotype pictured here was done by Samuel J. Miller between 1847 and 1852 in Akron, Ohio. The Art Institute of Chicago notes that Northeastern Ohio was the home of abolitionism before the Civil War and Douglass had the notion that this photo would be showcased to his supporters all around the globe. In essence, he did pose for a lot of photos but was mindful to keep his public image intact on all occasions. Nineteenth-century feminist, Elizabeth Cady, noted this photo showed Douglass quite “majestic in his wrath” as he was on a mission for good.
Frederick Douglass
George Armstrong Custer At West Point (1859)
This photo was taken before George Armstrong managed to grow out his curly locks and interesting mustache and while he was a cadet at West Point. Born in 1839, Custer was not the best academically as he scored the lowest in his class but would end up getting a lot of fame in the Civil War. Many would consider him a daring cavalry officer, while others classified him as a foolish one. The historic figure worked hard to gain a good reputation as an “Indian Fighter” but was seen by many as theatrical with doubtful tactical abilities. Custer oversaw the 1864 Sand Creek Massacre, which saw wars being led against women, children, and the elderly. Today, he will certainly not be forgotten for his 1876’s Battle of the Little BigHorn defeat.
George Armstrong Custer At West Point
