Booker T. Washington similarities between WEB DuBois
Booker T. Washington and WEB DuBois were both prominent African-American leaders and intellectuals during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, they had different approaches and beliefs regarding civil rights and the advancement of African Americans.
1. Education: Both Washington and DuBois recognized the importance of education for African Americans. They believed that education was vital for the progress of their community. However, they differed in their views on the type of education that should be pursued.
2. Upbringing: Both Washington and DuBois were born into slavery. They experienced firsthand the struggles and discrimination faced by African Americans during this period, which influenced their perspectives and actions later in life.
3. Integration vs. Separation: Washington advocated for a gradual approach towards achieving equality. He believed in focusing on economic self-sufficiency and vocational training for African Americans. Washington believed in accommodating the white majority in order to gain their support and acceptance. On the other hand, DuBois advocated for immediate equality and social integration. He strongly opposed Washington's philosophy of compromise and rejected the idea of accommodating white superiority.
4. Political Activism: DuBois was heavily involved in political activism throughout his life. He co-founded the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and used his platform to fight for equal rights and combat racial discrimination. Washington, on the other hand, believed in focusing on economic empowerment rather than direct political activism. He believed that African Americans first needed to prove their worth through economic progress before gaining political power.
5. Writing and Scholarship: Both Washington and DuBois were prolific writers and scholars. They used their intellectual capabilities to advance the cause of African Americans through their books, articles, and speeches. Washington's most famous work is his autobiography "Up From Slavery," while DuBois's book "The Souls of Black Folk" is considered a seminal work in African-American literature.
6. Impact and Legacy: Despite their ideological differences, both Washington and DuBois made significant contributions to the civil rights movement. Washington's emphasis on education and economic progress helped lay the foundation for the later achievements of the civil rights movement. DuBois, on the other hand, played a crucial role in advancing the cause of equality and was instrumental in the formation of organizations such as the NAACP.
Overall, while Washington and DuBois had different approaches and beliefs, they both fought for the advancement and equality of African Americans during a time of significant racial discrimination and segregation in America.