No, Frederick Douglass did not attend high school. In fact, he received little formal education throughout his life. Born into slavery in 1818, Douglass learned to read and write largely through the efforts of his owner’s wife, Sophia Auld, who began teaching him the basics. However, after her husband forbade her from continuing his education, Douglass took it upon himself to learn more by befriending neighborhood children and reading any materials he could find.
Douglass’s self-education was a pivotal part of his life, fueling his quest for freedom and equality. His determination and intellect allowed him to become a leading abolitionist, orator, and writer, despite lacking formal schooling. Douglass eventually wrote several autobiographies, advocating for the rights of African Americans and women, thereby showcasing that education can come from many sources beyond traditional schooling.