Read the excerpt from The Souls of Black Folk by
W. E. B. Du Bois.
The growing spirit of kindliness and reconciliation
between the North and South after the frightful
difference of a generation ago ought to be a source of
deep congratulation to all, and especially to those
whose mistreatment caused the war; but if that
reconciliation is to be marked by the industrial slavery
and civic death of those same black men, with
permanent legislation into a position of inferiority, then
those black men, if they are really men, are called upon
by every consideration of patriotism and loyalty to
oppose such a course by all civilized methods, even
though such opposition involves disagreement with Mr.
Booker T. Washington.
What is the author's claim?
People should challenge Washington on his beliefs.
O Reconciliation that includes oppressing a group of
people should be opposed.
The reconciliation of the North and South at that
point in time should be celebrated.
Black men should be patriotic and loyal because of
reconciliation.