Read the excerpt from Up from Slavery by Booker T.

Washington.

One-third of the population of the South is of the Negro
race. No enterprise seeking the material, civil, or moral
welfare of this section can disregard this element of our
population and reach the highest success. I but convey
to you, Mr. President and Directors, the sentiment of
the masses of my race when I say that in no way have
the value and manhood of the American Negro been
more fittingly and generously recognized than by the
managers of this magnificent Exposition at every stage
of its progress. It is a recognition that will do more to
cement the friendship of the two races than any
occurrence since the dawn of our freedom.

What evidence does the author use to support the
claim that no one can disregard Black citizens and be
successful?

A. Black citizens make up a significant portion of the
population.

B. Ensuring material and moral security for Black
citizens will lead to success.

C. Recognizing the worth and power of Black citizens
will bring people together.

D. The successful convention directors recognize the
value of Black citizens!

1 answer

The best evidence the author uses to support the claim that no one can disregard Black citizens and be successful is:

A. Black citizens make up a significant portion of the population.

This evidence establishes the demographic significance of Black citizens in the South, implying that any effort toward the region's success must consider this substantial population.