Born into slavery in the early 19th century, Frederick Douglass remains one of the most important and influential figures of the American abolitionist movement. A self educated writer and activist, Douglass escaped his enslavement and published a defining memoir – Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, bringing notoriety and fame that saw him briefly leave the United States.

His travels took him to Ireland, a country that influenced him greatly. In Ireland, he published a second edition of the Narrativeand met his hero, the Irish political leader and famed orator, Daniel O’Connell. Douglass’ time in Ireland is of lasting importance – this year we celebrate the 175th anniversary of his visit, and the role Ireland played in his own life and journey.