Overcoming Obstacles
3rd Grade: Booker T. Washington
Think About It
Do you ever find yourself wondering, “Why do I have to go to school?” When your parents enter your room and urge you to hurry up for breakfast, do you respond with, “Can I just have five more minutes?” Have you ever stopped to think about how fortunate you are to have the opportunity to attend school? There was a time in America when some people, because of their skin color, were not allowed to attend school or learn how to read and write.
This began to change after the Civil War ended. But it was still a significant challenge for Black individuals to get an education. For Black people during that period, the ability to read symbolized freedom. It meant they could be self-reliant, independent, and have the chance to thrive.
Booker T. Washington's Determination
Booker T. Washington recognized the significance of education for the success of Black Americans after the Civil War. He grew up to become a very important man who impacted education in a big way. But, he was born into slavery. How did Booker overcome obstacles to change history? Let’s find out!
Overcoming Obstacles
Booker was born into slavery on a farm in Franklin County, Virginia. His mother, Jane, served as the plantation’s cook, and he never knew his father. As a child, he rarely had enough food. He slept on a bundle of rags and had to work very hard on the farm. Despite these challenges, Booker had a strong desire to learn and attend school, but it was illegal for slaves to learn how to read and write. Thankfully, things got better for nine-year-old Booker, his family, and all the enslaved people in the South when the Union won the Civil War in 1865. This victory gave freedom to everyone who had been enslaved. Now, Booker and his family faced the challenge of making decisions about their future, including where to live, what to do, and how to support themselves and each other.
Think About It
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Why is it important for everyone to go to school?
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Why do you think getting an education was still a challenge for Black individuals after the Civil War?
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What are some obstacles that Booker T. Washington had to overcome?
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How did life change for Booker and his family after the Civil War ended?
