Question

Booker T. Washington says regarding African Americans, '...it is not strange that in the first years of our new life we began at the top instead of at the bottom....' What does he mean by 'new life'? Explain the difference between the 'top' and 'bottom'.

Answer 1

Booker T. Washington's statement refers to the African American community's transition from slavery to freedom and the challenges they faced in establishing themselves in society.

Step-by-step explanation:

Booker T. Washington's statement about starting 'at the top instead of at the bottom' refers to the African American community's transition from slavery to freedom and the challenges they faced in establishing themselves in society. By 'new life,' Washington means the period after the Civil War and Emancipation when African Americans were no longer enslaved.

He believed that instead of immediately seeking political and social equality, they should focus on gaining economic success through education and entrepreneurship. The 'top' represents economic prosperity and social status, while the 'bottom' represents the starting point of their journey towards success.