Literary scholar Dr. Williams argues that Frederick Douglass's later speeches show a shift from purely abolitionist concerns to a broader critique of economic inequality, contrary to the prevailing view that his thought remained centered on slavery throughout his life.
Which finding, if true, would most strongly support Dr. Williams's argument?
- A
Several other 19th-century reformers also critiqued economic inequality.
- Bcheck_circle
Speeches Douglass delivered in the 1880s and 1890s explicitly address wages, labor conditions, and the concentration of wealth, with extended commentary distinct from his earlier antislavery writing.
- C
Douglass remained involved in public life until his death.
- D
Douglass's earlier speeches were widely circulated in newspapers.
Explanation
A provides direct textual evidence of the broadened concerns Williams claims. B, C, and D are tangential.