48 pages 1 hour read

Booker T. Washington

Up From Slavery

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1901

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Up From Slavery is an autobiography by Booker T. Washington, depicting his journey from enslavement to becoming an influential educator and founder of the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. It chronicles his childhood, education at the Hampton Institute, and his lifelong commitment to industrial education, promoting gradual self-improvement over immediate civil rights agitation, despite criticism from contemporary Black leaders. The book includes detailed depictions of racism and slavery.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Booker T. Washington's Up From Slavery is widely praised for its inspirational narrative and insight into post-Civil War America. Reviewers commend its vivid depiction of Washington's perseverance and contributions to African American education. However, some criticize the book for what they see as an overly accommodating stance towards segregation policies. Overall, it remains a compelling, historically significant read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Up From Slavery?

Readers who appreciate first-person narratives of overcoming adversity and gaining self-empowerment will find Up From Slavery compelling. Comparable to The Autobiography of Malcolm X and Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, it appeals to those interested in African American history and inspirational stories of resilience.

Recommended

Reading Age

16+years

Book Details

Topics

History: U.S.

Race / Racism

Education

Genre

African American Literature

Classic Fiction

Biography

Period

Reconstruction Era

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance

Identity: Race

Society: Community