"The Two Sides of Black America: A Comparison

             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...

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