Lincoln and Douglass Relationship: Author responds to question regarding possible friendship

Dr. Prager, in your writing you seem to suggest that President Lincoln and Mr. Douglass could have been friends, based on their similar upbringing. Yet it seems to me that their lives were very different, based on the racial attitudes of the times.
Can you please elaborate on this subject?
Thank you.

Thank you for your interest.  Lincoln and Douglass both grew up in poverty with families where progressive aspirations were actively discouraged.  They each persevered and rose to the greatest position of prominence available.  Their similarities in background and experience of success might have been enough to make them natural allies, but you are correct, the difference between being a slave and being indentured to a parent is great.  Both men being sensitive in regard to their honor it is not surprising that conflicts would arise precluding the development of trust necessary for friendship.

It is the way the world reflects to us qualities in which we are unique that a more solid foundation was laid for friendship.  In regard to intelligence, sense of humor and faith in the honor and progressive spirit of humanity they were both highly exceptional.  I believe that they would eventually see beyond the superficial and recognize a familiar soul; friendship would follow