Besides, the general political agitation drew the attention of our people away from the more fundamental matters of perfecting themselves in the industries at their doors and in securing property.
Washington argues that excessive political focus during Reconstruction diverted African Americans from essential pursuits of industrial skill and property acquisition.
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More from Booker T. Washington
I do not know how many have noticed it, but I think that it will be found to be true that there are few instances, either in slavery or freedom, in which a member of my race has been known to betray a specific trust.
I have never seen one who did not want to be free, or one who would return to slavery.
This tenderness and sympathy on the part of those held in bondage was a result of their kindly and generous nature.