Booker T. Washington: A Life in American History

by Mark Christian

Overview

An illuminating historical biography for students and scholars alike, this book gives readers insight into the life and times of Booker T. Washington.

Booker T. Washington was an integral figure in mid-19th to early-20th century America who successfully transitioned from a life in slavery and poverty to a position among the Black elite. This book highlights Washington's often overlooked contributions to the African and African American experience, particularly his support of higher education for Black students through fundraising for Fisk and Howard universities, where he served as a trustee. A vocal advocate of vocational and liberal arts alike, Washington eventually founded his own school, the Tuskegee Institute, with a well-rounded curriculum to expand opportunities and encourage free thinking for Black students. While Washington was sometimes viewed as a "great accommodator" by his critics for working alongside wealthy, white elites, he quietly advocated for Black teachers and students as well as for desegregation. This book will offer readers a clearly written, fully realized overview of Booker T. Washington and his legacy.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781440872488
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	09/09/2021
Series:	Black History Lives
Pages:	296
Product dimensions:	6.40(w) x 9.55(h) x 0.85(d)
Age Range:	12 - 18 Years

About the Author

Mark Christian, PhD, is professor of Africana studies at the City University of New York. His latest book is The 20th Century Civil Rights Movement: An Africana Studies Perspective.

Table of Contents

Series Foreword ix

Preface xi

Acknowledgments xvii

Chapter 1 Historical Context 1

Chapter 2 Childhood in Bondage and Hampton Institute 19

Chapter 3 Tuskegee Institute and Family Matters 41

Chapter 4 The Atlanta Compromise and Beyond 65

Chapter 5 Of Dr. W. E. B. Du Bois and Others 99

Chapter 6 Africa in His Mind and Practice 143

Why Booker T. Washington Matters 179

Timeline 211

Primary Documents 217

Bibliography 257

Index 267

Editorial Reviews

Recommended. All undergraduates.” —Choice

From the Publisher

"Recommended. All undergraduates."

Choice