The article by Fairclough titled “Tuskegee’s Robert R. Moton and the Travails of the Early Black College President” that was published in The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education in 2001 focuses on the role of an important historical figure. One of the most important aspects that should not be overlooked is that an educator was determined to make sure that there is an environment where people of color may safely return to their homes after such a traumatizing event as World War I.
The importance of his continuous support needs to be mentioned. He had to deal with numerous issues but did not stop because he believed that his actions were right. It is also necessary to note that he was not only interested in education but also participated in other activities that were related to racial issues. He has attempted to investigate the way black individuals were treated during the war and has noted that they had to deal with such problems as worse equipment and others. The return from World War I has certainly had a tremendous impact on families because most people of color were proud of their participation and were expecting new opportunities for employment (Fairclough, 2001). It is paramount to note that I agree with this statement, and I believe that it has increased morale, and people were ready to participate in numerous meetings.
A return to war is another aspect that needs to be discussed. It is imperative to note that people were much more ready this time. The fact that the government has realized that whites and blacks do not have to train separately to increase the level of communication was also vital. The impact of economic challenges also needs to be mentioned, and Moton understood that a significant percentage of people of color cannot afford education because of numerous internal and external factors. He has mentioned that various changes are necessary and viewed the situation as unacceptable. It is important to note that situation has started to improve significantly at that time (Morowski, 2013). Numerous migrations have had an impact on this topic because an educator had to get an understanding of changing demographics and the ways in which they affect the process of education.
The role of the Harlem Renaissance also should not be overlooked because the interest in black art has been increasing at that time, and arts programs that he was able to initiate are quite remarkable. Also, it is necessary to mention that Moton has been frequently criticized for his speeches, and many thought that he tried to pander to particular audiences. On the other hand, the fact that his approach was effective should not be overlooked, and he has managed to accomplish a lot of things, and his achievements have to be respected. It is also imperative to say that New Deal programs have also affected this topic, and Moton believed that the ones that are focused on aid should be prioritized over desegregation.
In conclusion, this article has helped to get a better understanding of the topic and what events took place at that time. It is especially interesting how much attention was devoted to the process of education. Overall, it is imperative to mention that I have understood which personal qualities Moton has utilized to become an outstanding spokesman and the impact of World War I on processes at that time.
References
Fairclough, A. (2001). Tuskegee’s Robert R. Moton and the Travails of the Early Black College President. The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education, 31(1), 94-105.
Morowski, D. L. (2013). Public Perceptions, Private Agendas: Washington, Moton, and the Secondary Curriculum of Tuskegee Institute 1910-1926. American Educational History Journal, 40(1), 1-20.