Read the excerpt from The Souls of Black Folk by W. E. B. Du Bois. The growing spirit of kindliness and reconciliation between the North and South after the frightful difference of a generation ago ought to be a source of deep congratulation to all, and especially to those whose mistreatment caused the war; but if that reconciliation is to be marked by the industrial slavery and civic death of those same black men, with permanent legislation into a position of inferiority, then those black men, if they are really men, are called upon by every consideration of patriotism and loyalty to oppose such a course by all civilized methods, even though such opposition involves disagreement with Mr. Booker T. Washington. What is the author’s claim?
Answer
A
Black men should be patriotic and loyal because of reconciliation.
B
The reconciliation of the North and South at that point in time should be celebrated.
C
People should challenge Washington on his beliefs.
D
Reconciliation that includes oppressing a group of people should be opposed.
Explanation
Du Bois says reconciliation between the North and South is welcome, but not if it comes at the cost of Black men’s freedom and equal citizenship. He argues that Black men should oppose reconciliation built on their continued oppression, using civilized methods. So the claim is that reconciliation that includes oppressing a group of people should be opposed.
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