Year: 1903

Who: W.E.B. Du Bois

Where: Great Barrington, MA

In 1903, W.E.B. Du Bois published The Souls of Black Folk, a seminal collection of essays that offered profound insights into the African American experience. This work introduced the concept of "double consciousness," articulating the internal conflict faced by Black Americans who navigate the dual identity of being both American and African American. Du Bois's eloquent prose and incisive analysis not only showcased his intellectual depth but also illuminated the pervasive racial injustices of the era.

Du Bois's influence extended beyond his writings. As a co-founder of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in 1909, he played a pivotal role in advocating for civil rights and combating racial discrimination. Serving as the editor of The Crisis, the NAACP's official magazine, from 1910 to 1934, Du Bois provided a platform for Black voices and issues, challenging societal norms and promoting the advancement of African Americans. His concept of the "Talented Tenth" emphasized the importance of higher education in developing leadership within the Black community, advocating for a select group to lead the way in uplifting the race.

Today, W.E.B. Du Bois's legacy is preserved through his extensive body of work and the institutions he helped establish. His contributions are celebrated as foundational to the civil rights movement and African American intellectual thought. Du Bois's story invites reflection on the ongoing struggle for racial equality and continues to inspire future generations to pursue justice and education as means of societal transformation.

Sources:

Websites:

• Britannica. (n.d.). W.E.B. Du Bois. https://www.britannica.com/biography/W-E-B-Du-Bois​

• NAACP. (n.d.). W.E.B. Du Bois. https://naacp.org/find-resources/history-explained/civil-rights-leaders/web-du-bois​