Up from Slavery · Chapter
Helping Others explained
Booker T.
What happens
Booker T. Washington reflects on his second year at Hampton Institute, emphasizing the unselfishness of teachers and the lesson that happiness comes from serving others. He describes his mother's death, his struggle to return to Hampton, and his subsequent work as a teacher in Malden, West Virginia, where he established day and night schools, a reading room, and a debating society. He also recounts helping his brother John and adopted brother James gain an education, and notes the violent activities of the Ku Klux Klan during this period.
Themes in this chapter
Education and Self-Improvement
Washington's dedication to learning at Hampton and his efforts to educate others in Malden through day and night schools.
Overcoming Adversity and Poverty
Washington's struggle to return to Hampton after his mother's death and his work in coal mines to earn money.
Self-Reliance and Character Building
Washington's emphasis on personal cleanliness, the toothbrush, and the value of hard work and service to others.
Characters to notice
- Booker T. Washington
Reflects on his second year at Hampton, his mother's death, and his teaching work in Malden.
- General J. F. B. Marshall
As treasurer of Hampton Institute, he allowed Washington to reenter and trust him to pay his debt.
- Miss Nathalie Lord
Teacher from Portland, Maine, who taught Washington to love the Bible and gave him private lessons in public speaking.
- Mrs. Viola Ruffner
Provided work and assistance to Washington during the difficult period after his mother's death.
- Miss Mary F. Mackie
Lady principal at Hampton who invited Washington to return early to work as a janitor.
- John Hatcher
Washington's older brother who worked in coal mines to support the family and later became Superintendent of Industries at Tuskegee.
Key passages
“Before the end of the year, I think I began learning that those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.”
By the end of the year, Washington realized that true happiness comes from serving others.
A key lesson from his second year at Hampton.
“I have had a desire to do something to make the world better, and then to be able to speak to the world about that thing.”
Washington's ambition was to improve the world and then speak about his efforts.
Reflects his motivation for public speaking.
“I was supremely happy in the opportunity of being able to assist somebody else.”
Washington found great joy in helping others.
Describes his fulfillment as a teacher in Malden.