In a well-organized essay, respond to one of the following options, based on readings in the American Yawp Reader.
Option 1 — Progressivism
Consider the positions of Booker T. Washington and W.E. B. DuBois on progress for African Americans:
http://www.americanyawp.com/reader/20-the-progressive-era/booker-twashington-w-e-b-dubois-on-black-progress-1895-1903/
1. How do Washington and DuBois differ in their views of racial progress?
Be specific and provide evidence.
2. To what do you attribute the differences? Explain.
3. Do you think Washington’s position or DuBois’ position was more realistic in the early 20th century? Explain.
4. Whose point of view better fits the “Progressive” label, and why?
5. Has DuBois’ vision of racial progress been realized in the century since he wrote Souls of Black Folk? Explain
6. Whose point of view do you find more persuasive, and why?
7. Does the work of these two African American leaders have anything to teach us in the 21st century? Explain.
Your essay must:
• Be between 750 and 1000 words • Be typed and double-spaced • Use standard 1” margins • Use 12-pt type in Times New Roman or Courier New font