Booker T. Washington

From the time that I can remember anything, almost every day of my life had been occupied in some kind of labour; though I think I would now be a more useful man if I had had time for sports.

The picture of several dozen boys and girls in a schoolroom engaged in study made a deep impression upon me, and I had the feeling that to get into a schoolhouse and study in this way would be about the same as getting into paradise.

From any point of view, I had rather be what I am, a member of the Negro race, than be able to claim membership with the most favoured of any other race.

I have great faith in the power and influence of facts.

Before the end of the year, I think I began learning that those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.

I was supremely happy in the opportunity of being able to assist somebody else.

I think I never saw a community of people so happy over anything as were the coloured people over the prospect of this new building.

I knew that if we failed it would injure the whole race.

I repeat my belief that the world is growing in the direction of giving.

I have always looked upon fame as something to be used in accomplishing good.

But taking place at the time it did, and for the reason that it did, no one could ever make me believe that my mother was guilty of thieving.

Even the most ignorant members of my race on the remote plantations felt in their hearts, with a certainty that admitted of no doubt, that the freedom of the slaves would be the one great result of the war, if the Northern armies conquered.