"What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?"

   In one section, it says, "I have said that the Declaration of Independence is the ring-bolt to the chain of your nation's destiny; so, indeed, I regard it. The principal contained in that instrument are saving principles. Stand by those principles, be true to them on all occasions, in all places, against all foes, and at whatever cost.''

  This quote means that the Declaration of Independence is basically the goal of our country. The principal in the document is the key to making the country successful. Also, in order to make a country successful we have to follow the rules anywhere you are, any person you're with, and in any situation.

    This quote was chosen because it shows that Fredrick  Douglass believes that citizens of the United States should follow the principles included in the Declaration of Independence to make the country succeed its goals.