Concise Summary of W. E. B. Du Bois and the NAACP Formation

  • David Levering Lewis: Author of various works focusing on race and history, among them "W. E. B. Du Bois: Biography of a Race" and others related to African-American history.

  • W. E. B. Du Bois: Key figure in the establishment of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People).

    • Resigned from Atlanta University in 1910 to take a role in the NAACP.
    • Emphasized the need for political action and civil rights for African-Americans.

  • NAACP Formation: Originated in 1909 from a mix of African-American and white social reformers seeking to address civil rights issues.

    • Two perspectives: uplift through suasion vs. direct civil rights advocacy.
    • Initial significant contributors included Du Bois, William English Walling, and white reformers.

  • Springfield Riot (1908): A catalyst for the formation of the NAACP, highlighting racial tensions in the North.

    • Underlined the shift in race issues from being a southern problem to a national concern.

  • Key Events Leading to NAACP's Founding:

    • The Niagara Movement influenced the NAACP with a push for civil rights.
    • 1909 meeting marked by growing African-American discontent and demands for equality.

  • Notable Participants in the Conference: Included prominent figures such as Mary Ovington and Oswald Villard, emphasizing interracial cooperation.

  • Outcomes of the Conference:

    • Formation of the NAACP officially on May 12, 1910.
    • Established a national committee aimed at civil rights advocacy, with a structure for ongoing work.
    • Key leaders: Moorfield Storey (president) and Villard (assistant treasurer).

  • Du Bois's Role: Though he had a significant influence, he faced challenges within the organization, notably in achieving leadership roles.

    • His advocacy for political rights challenged prevailing notions of socio-economic advancement through patient industry.

  • Tensions within NAACP: Persisted between different factions; women and people of color were sometimes marginalized.

    • Historical context of Washington vs. Du Bois; Du Bois's push against Washington's accommodationist strategy.