Comparing/Contrasting: Compare and contrast the views and goals of Washington and DuBois
A. How were their goals and views similar?
B. How were their goals and views different?
A. The goals and views of Washington and DuBois shared some similarities. Both leaders aimed to uplift the Black community and achieve racial equality in the United States. They recognized the importance of education as a means of empowerment for Black individuals. They also acknowledged the need for economic progress and self-sufficiency within the Black community.
B. However, their goals and views also differed significantly. Washington, as a proponent of the philosophy of accommodationism, believed in prioritizing economic self-sufficiency and gradual social progress for Black individuals. He advocated for vocational education and practical skills training to achieve economic advancement for the Black community. Washington emphasized the importance of cooperation with white individuals and sought to prove Black citizens' worth through their economic contributions.
On the other hand, DuBois had a more radical and assertive approach towards achieving racial equality. He challenged the accommodationist view and advocated for full civil rights and equal educational opportunities for Black individuals. DuBois believed in the importance of higher education, particularly for the talented tenth, a class of educated Black leaders who would uplift the race as a whole. Unlike Washington, DuBois argued for more direct political and legal action to challenge discrimination and inequality. He criticized Washington's emphasis on economic progress as being subservient and compromising Black dignity.