Answer:
Du Bois emphasized the legacy of racism and its deleterious effects on the lives of Black people.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main claim of "The Souls of Black Folk" by W.E.B. Du Bois is that the African American experience in America is one of double consciousness—a sense of having a divided identity, being both American and Black. Du Bois argues that African Americans have to navigate a world that sees them through the lens of racial prejudice and discrimination, while also striving for self-realization and asserting their cultural and intellectual contributions. He explores various aspects of this double consciousness, including the impact of racism, the quest for education and equality, the significance of African American spirituals, and the need for cultural and political solidarity. Overall, Du Bois advocates for the recognition and celebration of African American humanity, intellect, and artistic expression, while critiquing the racial injustices and social inequalities that persist in American society.