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Debate between booker T and dubois

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Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Dubois Debate

The debate between Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Dubois turned out to be one of the greatest intellectual as well as inspiring battles in our United States history. This great debate sparked the interest of African Americans and whites throughout the entire country. Both men had distinct views on how blacks should go about progressing politically, socially, as well as financially here in the United States. Both Du Bois and Washington wanted African-Americans to have the same rights as white Americans; But Du Bois encouraged African-Americans to demand equal rights, while Washington, on the other hand, often ignored discrimination. He believed that it was important for blacks to develop …show more content…

In terms of voting, Dubois believed that agitating for the ballot was necessary, but opposed giving the vote to the uneducated blacks. He believed that economic gains were not secure unless there was political power to safeguard them. Washington, on the other hand, felt that the right to vote was not a necessity and the only thing that would come out of protesting for voting rights is the irritation of whites.
In conclusion, the debate between W.E.B Dubois and Washington was nothing short of remarkable and genius. Although both men had two separate ways about doing things they both shared the same common goal, which was bettering the lives of African Americans. In my opinion, W.E.B Dubois plan to go strongly for African American rights and equality was the better strategy. Not only did he help bring us together but he gave blacks a sense of self confidence that they didn’t possess before. For once blacks believed not only can you be as good as the white man but better. While some may agree that Mr. Washington’s plan to endure the second citizenship title was only degrading and keeping the black man down. Although Washington had honorable goals Dubois gave the people a strong sense of empowerment and worthiness that has helped the black race grows into what it is today.

Works Cited
Dubois, W.E.B. The Souls of Black Folk. UMDrive. The University of Memphis. N.d. Web. 22 Feb. 2014.
Washington, Booker T. “Speech at the Atlanta Exposition.” African

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