Booker T Washington vs. W.E.B Dubois

Although slavery was abolished and the lifestyle of a slave no longer existed, the African American community still had to deal with the harsh discrimination and the high poverty. This was just the beginning of the struggle that African Americans had to face. Legally they were free, but socially, economically, and politically they were shown resistance. Booker T Washington and W.E.B Dubois were the two men who sought a brighter future for African Americans but in two different opposing views. Booker T Washington believed that social and political equality was not as important as economic equality. He instituted that African Americans will be accepted when they can prove that they are just as competent as white Americans. W.E.B Dubois argued that being neglected in any way by white Americans is wrong and that equality is equality no matter what. W.E.B Dubois sought a future where African Americans will be accepted in all aspects of American life. Even though both men disagreed on certain topics, they both wanted a brighter more prosperous future for African Americans. However I agree more with the strategies of W.E.B Dubois than Booker T Washington.
Booker T Washington philosophy included racial solidarity and accommodation. He urged African Americans to just accept their conditions for the time being so that they can strive in other aspects such as a trade that will help them economically. Booker T Washington believed that the time spent with W.E.B Dubois arguing for political independence and social equality could be used on building a better community for African Americans. Booker T Washington’s s strategy was to gain the respect of white America, and that would lead to acceptance as citizens and in society.   Booker T Washington’s famous speech “Cast down your bucket where you are” explains his whole philosophy on African American lifestyle.   He expresses how the opportunity for friendship will come upon the two races,... [continues]

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