Booker T. Washington: “It seemed to me as I watched this struggle between members of the two races, that there was no hope for our people in…”

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

Having once got its tentacles fastened on to the economic and social life of the Republic, it was no easy matter for the country to relieve itself of the institution.

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.