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Born into slavery in 1856, Booker T. Washington worked his way up from humble beginnings. After the Civil War, he walked 500 miles to attend Hampton Institute, showing his dedication to education. His life experiences shaped his beliefs about how African Americans could advance in society.

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In his famous 1895 Atlanta Compromise speech, Washington argued that African Americans should focus on learning trades and proving their economic value before pushing for social equality. He believed that gaining skills in farming, mechanics, and business would lead to respect from white society.

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Washington founded the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, which taught practical skills like farming and trades. He believed that economic self-reliance was the key to advancement. The school became a model for African American education focusing on industrial training.

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W.E.B. DuBois was born free in 1868 in Massachusetts. He became the first African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1895. His excellent education influenced his belief that academic achievement was crucial for racial progress.

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DuBois promoted the idea of the 'Talented Tenth' - that the top 10% of African Americans should be given a classical education to become leaders and teachers. He believed that having educated leaders was necessary to guide the community toward full equality.

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DuBois helped found the NAACP in 1909. Unlike Washington, he fought directly against segregation and racial discrimination. He believed African Americans should demand equal rights immediately and not wait for gradual change.

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Washington focused on economic progress through practical skills, while DuBois emphasized higher education and immediate equal rights. Washington was willing to accept temporary segregation, but DuBois fought against it. Both wanted progress for African Americans but disagreed on how to achieve it.

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Think about it: If you lived in the early 1900s, which leader's approach would you have supported? Why? Consider the challenges African Americans faced during this time period when forming your answer.