For this Socratic Seminar, have students read the full text of Booker T. Washington’s Atlanta Compromise speech. Since the text is quite lengthy, consider assigning it for homework or giving an additional class period for students to read and analyze the source prior to the discussion.

After the seminar, lead a reflection in which students answer the following questions:

• What was the main idea of Booker T. Washington’s Atlanta Compromise speech, and what did he believe was the key to racial uplift?
• This speech is often referred to as Washington’s “Atlanta Compromise.” From the content of the speech, what can be identified as being compromised? In a compromise one offers something in order to get something. What does Washington offer in this compromise; what does he expect to get?