Signs of Progress Among the Negroes

Washington’s observations on the progress of blacks was well written in his address “Signs of Progress Among the Negroes.” He used an almost flawless pathos appeal when, in the beginning, he described the story of a boy who was able to work his way to Alabama in search of Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute. This was a school that gave colored people the opportunity to both get an education and learn hands-on. The boy was able to use money from the former master and other blacks to make his long journey. But still, he was very low on funds and walked a great deal. Because of his goal and ambition, however, some gave him a free ride closer to his destination. The boy, William, soon was able to make it and grew to be a fantastic student in a short amount of time. Though his former master was hesitant to do so at first, he sent William money. When William one day came back and paid Mr.S---- back, the plantation owner was impressed. Together they built a great school much like the Tuskegee institute.
This appeal at emotion is perfect in this context, it narrates Washington’s reasoning behind this address completely. The reader can easily understand the emotion and complications involved in a young black boy going that great distance alone, but for him to come back and help the white plantation owner that helped him was unheard of at the time. Washington aimed to change the opinions of those that doubted the freedom for everyone. He wanted to explain how many more events like this would take place if only blacks and whites were willing to work together and move forward.
This story also appealed to Washington’s ethos as well, and gave him a lot of credit for research. Because of this story and it’s peaceful results, we know that Washington was a man of speech and not violence. Unlike those willing to kill for their rights, he was willing to compromise and persuade. His argument left little to be argued against, and it appeared to be reasonable. One could not accuse Washington of hostile behavior or views, he made himself too difficult to dislike. Anyone that went against him would immediately be seen as the wrong one.
Washington’s story even provided a reliable source of logos. It was only right to give free blacks a fair chance, as they had been working loyally for whites for many years before. What would make them betray anyone now that they were free? Because blacks looked for the best interest of everyone, all they wanted was to get educations and grow in their nation. Washington made this argument very well. He described the school that William and the plantation owner built together as a haven for both races to unite and grow with one another. He explains how this ‘heaven on earth’ can be reached all over the nation.
Obviously the greatest appeal throughout Washington’s article was his appeal on emotion. It was used first to gain attention from the audience and then to keep it. Though Washington used several other appeals, this one stuck out more than anything. Washington had a way of saying things the exact way they needed to be said, whether it was heartfelt or frank. His way with words could convince the most stubborn of people and they would have no argument against it.