I determined, when quite a small child, that, if I accomplished nothing else in life, I would in some way get enough education to enable me to read common books and newspapers.
In his autobiography, Washington recounts his childhood resolve to achieve literacy as his primary life ambition.
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More from Booker T. Washington
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.
I was supremely happy in the opportunity of being able to assist somebody else.
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.