W.E.B. Dubois Discussion

One of the quotes that stands out as being particularly significant in W.E.B. DuBois’ speech, “Of Booker T. Washington and Others” is that which reads, “In all things purely social we can be as separate as the five fingers, and yet one as the hand in all things essential to mutual progress.” I think this quote exemplifies the state of the country during this time period.
During the Civil War the country was split and separated upon lines of race, political party, location and social interest. These divisions created boundaries and hostilities, but they also marked the grounds and issues upon which our country fought to unify and progress. While slavery, in my mind, is not a means to progress, those of the Confederate South believed that through slavery much grandeur, power and money could be made. To these individuals, slavery made for financial and political stout, thus they viewed and fought to keep slavery in order for the country to progress on a financial and power level.
On the other hand, those of the Union North fought to end slavery and the divisions that separated the citizens of the United States in order for the country to unite as one and advance as one unified nation. Most, including myself, see the North’s point of view more fitting for Du Bois’ metaphor of the hand. For, even though there are things in life that separate us along certain lines, all people can unite as humans, regardless of race, political and social class. With this mentality, progress can proceed and the United States can go forth as a unified nation and front.
It is interesting when reading and studying the events surrounding the Civil War to unveil the messages of the texts and find the hidden metaphors that stand out as the strongest symbols of the time and movement.