Up from Slavery · Chapter
Anxious Days and Sleepless Nights explained
Washington recounts the immense pressure and financial struggles of establishing Tuskegee Institute, emphasizing the burden of representing his race.
What happens
Washington recounts the immense pressure and financial struggles of establishing Tuskegee Institute, emphasizing the burden of representing his race. He details how he maintained the school's credit by borrowing from local white citizens, received crucial personal support from General Armstrong, and describes the community's involvement in purchasing land and building a new structure. The chapter also covers his marriage to Fannie N. Smith, her death, and the tireless fundraising efforts of Miss Olivia A. Davidson.
Themes in this chapter
Overcoming Adversity and Poverty
Washington describes the immense burden of representing his race and the constant financial crises, yet perseveres through loans, community contributions, and personal sacrifice.
Philanthropy and Community Support
Both local white and black citizens contribute money, lumber, labor, and goods (like a hog) to build the school, while Northern donors like General Armstrong and a New York lady provide crucial funds.
Self-Reliance and Character Building
Washington emphasizes maintaining the school's credit and making it a self-sustaining part of the community, with students training in agriculture and industries.
Race Relations and Compromise
Washington advises making friends with white neighbors and consulting local interests in voting, reflecting his pragmatic approach to gaining white support for the school.
Characters to notice
- Booker T. Washington
Narrates the financial anxieties and determination to keep the school's credit high, borrowing from local white men and receiving help from General Armstrong.
- Mr. George W. Campbell
Gives Washington the advice that 'credit is capital' early in the school's work.
- General Samuel C. Armstrong
Provides his personal check for all his savings to help Tuskegee during a time of great financial distress.
- Miss Olivia A. Davidson
Works tirelessly to raise funds in the North and South, securing the first Northern gift of $50, and teaches Sunday school while serving as lady principal.
- Portia M. Washington
Born during Washington's marriage to Fannie N. Smith, mentioned as his child.
Key passages
“that if we failed it would injure the whole race. I knew that the presumption was against us.”
Washington felt that any failure of Tuskegee would reflect badly on all Black people, and that success was not expected by society.
Highlights the racial pressure and burden Washington carried.
“Washington, always remember that credit is capital.”
Mr. Campbell advised Washington that maintaining good financial credit is as valuable as having money itself.
Key advice that guided Washington's financial management.
“Any nigger that's got any love for his race, or any respect for himself, will bring a hog to the next meeting.”
An elderly Black man urged the community to contribute what they could, using a hog as an example of a meaningful donation.
Illustrates the grassroots support from the local Black community.