'Negro Laborer: A Word to Him' Summary

Negro Laborer: A Word to Him by William H. Councill serves as a motivational and practical guide for African American workers in the late 19th century. Written by a former slave and founder of Huntsville Normal School, Councill provides a series of short pieces offering advice on work ethic, education, and self-improvement. His reflections emphasize the importance of hard work, perseverance, and acquiring knowledge to elevate one's circumstances. Councill's perspective is shaped by his own experiences and his contemporary, Booker T. Washington, advocating for Black workers to take charge of their futures through education and labor. The book includes statistical data that offers a snapshot of the socio-economic landscape for African Americans in the post-slavery era, showcasing both the progress made and the challenges that remained. Through his work, Councill provides a powerful message of empowerment to the Negro laborer, underscoring the value of education and discipline in overcoming adversity.