I knew that the average Indian felt himself above the white man, and, of course, he felt himself far above the Negro, largely on account of the fact of the Negro having submitted to slavery—a thing which the Indian would never do.
Reflecting on his experience at Hampton Institute, Washington describes the perceived racial hierarchy among Native Americans, white people, and Black people.
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When freedom came, the slaves were almost as well fitted to begin life anew as the master, except in the matter of book-learning and ownership of property.
I was supremely happy in the opportunity of being able to assist somebody else.
When they saw that I was not afraid or ashamed to work, they began to assist with more enthusiasm.
Ever since I have been old enough to think for myself, I have entertained the idea that, notwithstanding the cruel wrongs inflicted upon us, the black man got nearly as much out of slavery as the white man did.