During the Progressive Era, many members of the African American community faced social, political, and economic problems, primarily due to racism and the lack of equal treatment applied by law. This was more prevalent in the South, although the North had its share of problems due to racial prejudice. Some successful members of the black community have spoken out against these conditions and proposed their own solutions. One of these people was Booker T. Washington, a well-known educator, author, and political figure who was a popular speaker among both white and black audiences. His widespread appeal gave him the opportunity to express his views on the plight of the black population to a wide audience. Washington's speech at the Atlanta Exposition of 1895 (Wheeler, p. 42) shows his thoughts on the best ways for the black community to gain acceptance among the white population. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essayWashington advocated that blacks and whites work together for the common good. For example, he told the story of a ship lost at sea that asked for water from the first ship it encountered. The ship tells the lost ship to throw a bucket. The ships make the same request and respond several times before the lost ship throws down a bucket. The bucket is pulled up full of fresh water. This story is used as an introduction to tell both whites and blacks to "put down the buckets" in friendship and professions. People of both races should be willing to help each other. The story also seems to say that those who ask for help do better when they also help themselves. Washington says blacks and whites could work together in the public sector for mutual advancement, but could still be separated socially. Since segregation was rampant during this time in the South, this idea would likely have been easily accepted with the mindset of the time. He believed that if it was understood that blacks worked hard and contributed to society, then there would be no reason to ostracize blacks. One issue that Washington felt was a big problem in the black community was that many wanted to start at the top of the occupations. after slavery. He felt it was better to learn first that there was dignity in carrying out common occupations. Through hard work, people could rise through the ranks. Today, this practice would make people less likely to resent those in high positions because of the job status they earned. During the time period of the late 1800s, many people likely still considered a black person to be undeserving of a high position, no matter how much he or she had earned his or her place. Washington's solutions reflected the Progressive Era philosophy that every person has the ability to improve their situation. world if I had the chance. One problem is that people's racist attitudes do not extend this view towards those from different backgrounds who they considered inferior. Reformers in government focused primarily on political and institutional issues, ignoring issues affecting those of other races and ethnic groups. For Washington's solutions to work, he would need the support and will of a majority with an open mind and a willingness to change their preconceived notions about people of other races. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get an essay.