Final answer:
Washington believed that moral character surpassed economic progress as an ambition. He championed self-improvement and property ownership as the means to prosperity and social equality, all grounded in strong moral fiber.
Step-by-step explanation:
Although Washington is known for championing economic progress, he suggests that moral character is an ambition even greater than personal success, economic prosperity, or social equality. In Washington's vision, no race could prosper without acknowledging the dignity in all types of work and striving for self-improvement in terms of property, industry, skill, economy, intelligence, and character. Washington's strategy, sometimes termed accommodation, indicated a belief that progress in economic conditions would lead to political and social equality, but it should not take precedence over the development of individual character and the overall moral fabric of society.