Booker T. Washington: “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…”

I have long since ceased to cherish any spirit of bitterness against the Southern white people on account of the enslavement of my race.

I can scarcely imagine any torture, except, perhaps, the pulling of a tooth, that is equal to that caused by putting on a new flax shirt for the first time.

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.