Washington, Booker T. (1856–1915)

Brooks B. Robinson

In the evolution of African American education, no historical personality stands out more than Booker Taliaferro Washington, commonly known as Booker T. Washington, who rose from enslavement to the heights of the United States and world society; who, having a brilliant mind, mastered skills that enabled him to become not only a top-notch educator but also a consummate administrator; who served as a key leader of African Americans; and who stands at the center of a perpetual controversy concerning the optimal development path for African Americans. This entry addresses each of these aspects of Washington's life. In addition, these characteristics and accomplishments are used to assess whether history supports the notion that Booker T. Washington is one of, if not the most prophetic and visionary African American leader of all time. Washington's lasting contribution to the literary history of African Americans in the United States is titled Up From Slavery. ...

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