In this day of African-American role models that are somewhat questionable (rappers, gang members, etc.) it is completely refreshing to go back into history and find the ones who are positive role models and overcame obstacles. On this date in 1838, Frederick Douglass boarded a train and escaped his life of slavery. He went on to become a famous abolitionist, and he even wrote his autobiography. I could honestly go on and on about his accomplishments, but I’ll let you look that up yourself. Indeed, he is a role model that African-Americans (and even white people like me) can look to for inspiration.
More info:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_Douglass
http://www.eyewitnesstohistory.com/fdoug.htm
http://www.americaslibrary.gov/aa/douglass/aa_douglass_escape_1.html
http://famousdaily.com/history/slavery-fredrick-douglas-escape-abolitionist.html