How Did Booker T Washington Influence African Americans In Education

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Born a slave in Franklin County Virginia, during the late 1800’s, Booker Taliaferro Washington today is known as one of the most influential African Americans in education. Booker was born to a woman by the name of Jane who functioned as a cook on a plantation. Washington was first introduced to education at an early age, through the admiration of other students being educated from a far on his daily slavery runs as a carrier. Although slaves were not permitted to learn, Booker’s mom detected his desire for an education, she attempted to nourish his longing by giving him a book. Excited about learning, Booker self- taught himself. Later on in 1866, Booker landed a job as a houseboy, for Viola Ruffner. Mrs. Ruffner respected Washington’s desire …show more content…
In 1881, Washington founded Tuskegee University, a school designed to train African Americans educators. Additionally, he established The National Negro Business League for the purpose of promoting economic independence. Washington also served in many other capacities such as an advocate for segregation and as an advisor to President Roosevelt and Taft. Booker T. Washington taught many people who came from destitute backgrounds "how to improve their lives by cleanliness, industry, thrift, diversified farming, painting and mending, family budgeting, and better planning" (Toppin 1971, …show more content…
Few state offered public education and teachers at that time lacked an aboundance of knowledge and were paid very little. There were no taxes being paid to support educational systems, leaving knowledge a provilage for the wealthy. As a result, children were often found stealing, destroying the property of others, and even setting fires because of their disgust with poverty. Although laws were passed to support education for all, women still faced the struggles of equality. Woemn ere forced to attend schools in areas with less