Along with family and religion, education is one of the most important aspects of society. Fredrick Douglass understood the importance of a good education by learning to read and later becoming a writer, author, and advocate for African Americans, women, and many others. In the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave, we learn the meaning and importance of Douglas's learning to read, the effect the institution of slavery had on both whites and blacks, and why l Learning to read threatened the institution of slavery in general. It was important for Frederick Douglass to learn to read because he could teach other slaves to read. In the excerpt, Douglass states, “The mistress, in teaching me the alphabet, had given me the thumb, and no precaution could prevent me from taking the ell” (80). Knowledge was dangerous at that time. When Douglass taught slaves to read, he helped them gain some knowledge about themselves. He could also gain knowledge that his slave master didn't want him to know, such as roads or things that could help him escape. Douglas' ability to read was significant because it made him an empowered black man. If Frederick Douglass had never learned to read, he would not have been the political activist he was. He would likely never have escaped or shared the knowledge he gained. The institution of slavery affected both blacks and whites. The black and white children couldn't understand why they couldn't be friends with each other. Douglass spoke highly of the white kids he met because they were not as knowledgeable as adults, so he was able to create a relationship with them. Nobody is born prejudiced. A person must be taught these ways, so do... in the center of the card... still very important. Many people take education for granted because they don't fully understand the fact that people before us died to give us what we have. Having an education not only benefits but also greatly influences the future of our society. An educated population represents a strong nation. Ignorance is one of the greatest tools used against us. Slave owners wanted to keep slaves ignorant of the facts, but Douglass had a vision for himself and future generations. Frederick Douglass understood this, and he also understood the value of an education. Education determines a person's future outcomes. How can you expect to compete and succeed in today's world without an education? Not having an education is equivalent to still being under the control of others. Even though Douglass came from a different time, his values ​​and virtues still hold true.