Booker T. Washington marks an epoch in the history of America. He was the greatest Negro leader since Frederick Douglass, and the most distinguished man, white or black, who came out of the South since the Civil War'" (Dagbovie). DuBois was also critical of Washington, however, and felt that he sometimes submitted to the will of whites, and lived between the black and white communities, attempting to get along with both (Dagbovie). Many other historians dispute this theory, feeling Washington maintained a healthy relationship with blacks and whites, and did much good for the black community.

Throughout his life, Washington was always concerned with the betterment of blacks and their economic and social condition. He believed education was the central point that would elevate blacks from poverty and despair. Another historian wrote, "Washington's concern was 'that slavery had left the [African-American] ill-prepared to care for himself'. In Washington's opinion, African-Americans...
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