In the opening of his "Atlanta Exposition Address," Booker T. Washington emphasized themes of industrial education, economic progress, and racial cooperation. The specific wording of the first sentence would provide clarity on his intentions and key messages in the speech. Generally, Washington's purpose was to advocate for vocational training for African Americans and to promote the idea that economic self-reliance would lead to social and political rights. The context of the address, given during a time of intense racial discrimination and segregation, indicates that he sought to bridge the gap between races and propose a practical approach to improving the status of Black Americans in society.
If you provide the exact first sentence, I can offer a more detailed analysis of its meaning.