Final answer:
W.E.B. Du Bois depicted Black American soldiers returning from WWI as resolute in their struggle for democracy and racial equality and urged them to continue fighting for civil rights. This experience laid the groundwork for the Harlem Renaissance and the 'New Negro Movement' which sought to change the status and rights of African Americans in society.
Step-by-step explanation:
W.E.B. Du Bois described the experiences of Black American soldiers returning to the U.S. after World War I as a moment of heightened awareness and determination. They returned with a fighting spirit, unwilling to accept the resumption of prewar racial injustices and determined to fight for democracy and equality. As Black soldiers had fought bravely for the United States, they came back expecting changes within their own nation. The stark contrast between their contributions during the war and the reality they faced upon return, a nation intent on maintaining the status quo of racial discrimination, only fueled their resolve. Du Bois expressed this sentiment powerfully with the words, "We return. We return from fighting. We return fighting. Make way for Democracy!" As such, he suggested that these soldiers continue the struggle for civil rights and social justice upon their return.
The context in which Du Bois encouraged the returning soldiers was not just about the social and political environment they faced but also about instigating a broader push toward equality. The impact of their service led to a shift in self-perception and activism within the African American community, laying the foundation for the Harlem Renaissance and inspiring the 'New Negro Movement', which aimed to recalibrate the social image and rights of African Americans. Du Bois' encouragement to keep fighting upon their return was a direct call to these soldiers to become key players in the fight against domestic injustice and discrimination.