Douglass used the occasion not to celebrate the nation's triumphs but to remind all of its continuing enslavement of millions of people.
Throughout his life, Douglass advocated equal justice and rights, as well as citizenship, for blacks. He tells the audience that they have gathered to celebrate the Fourth of July, but he reminds them that the nation is young, and, like a young child, it is still impressionable and capable of positive change.
Douglass hopes that by asking this question, people will be inclined to think about it and consider his arguments. The question also serves as the main idea throughout his speech.
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