Following the American Civil War, black rights was a heated topic for many years following. Throughout those years, many social activists had emerged and voiced out their beliefs—often on behalf of other people living in society. During the time period following the American Civil War, the two most prominent social leaders that continuously fought for the rights of black people were Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois. When looking at these men, it can easily be stated that both fought for equality, both were for equality, and both of them were black citizens of America. Back during that time period, leaders such as DuBois and Washington could only go so far when it came to allowing themselves to be heard. Thus, their resources for strategies became limited and therefore their strategies often were on the same “playing field” or equal. The disagreements that …show more content…
Washington was first born, his mother was a slave. When a slave child was born, they were automatically enslaved. This is exactly what happened to Washington, therefore, he had little to no rights at all his entire life as a black man. His childhood was taken away from him because he was enslaved since birth—Washington had to work long hours and received nothing in return. Despite such grueling childhood years, Washington managed to educate himself and rise above all of his fellow laves. By educating himself, he became an icon to black men and women all across the nation because an educated black man was seen as a hope for freedom during this time period. Just by looking at it, it is truly astonishing to see a man born into slavery (literally) and become so educated. Long story short, his educated self led Washington to become a founder of an all-black college, the Tuskegee Institute. The Tuskegee Institute became very famous after it’s establishment—especially in the black community because it gave blacks a chance for education and prosperity in life which is something only white people