Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois are arguably two of the most prominent
African Americans of the 20th century. They are both well known for their attempts to uplift the
African American of the United States. However, their approaches to accomplish these tasks
were drastically different. This paper will explore the differences between Washington and
DuBois in their opinions on the many aspects of the lives of blacks. By examining their
backgrounds and views on the uplifting of African-Americans, we can compare the different
approaches that Washington and DuBois employed in an attempt to reach a common goal, equal
Washington and DuBois were raised in very different environments, a factor that is
important in understanding what helped shaped their opinions on the future of their race. Booker
T. Washington was born into slavery. In his autobiography, Up From Slavery, Washington
describes his childhood environment as "the most miserable, desolate, and discouraging
surroundings." (490) Washington's childhood and rise to national prominence is characterized by
hard work and determination. After his family was emancipated, Washington's family moved to
Malden, West Virginia, where "drinking, gambling, fights, and shockingly immoral practices were
frequent." (500) Washington worked in salt furnaces and coal mines as a child, where the work
day could begin as early as four in the morning. Despite the long, hard labor which Washington
endured, he still held the strong desire to attend school and receive an education. His
determination led him to attend school at night and to fit classes into his daily work schedule.
After hearing of a "great school" while working in the salt mines, Washington resolved to attend
Hampton Institute in Virginia (505). He traveling a difficult five-hundred miles despite his lack of
money and resources. Despite being o...