"
The delegation admitted that his oratory had significantly helped
their cause. They were impressed with his racial views,
particularly when he stated that character development was more
important than political agitation. This was a position which
they could whole-heartily endorse.
The Cotton States Exposition which was held in Atlanta in 1895
strove to project an image of the South as a peaceful and
prosperous region. It tried to represent the South as a desirable
location for future financial investment. Part of the peaceful
image which it tried to create was a picture of racial harmony.
The Exposition had a pavilion which was built by ex-slaves and
which displayed their products, and it was decided to invite a
Negro to speak at the Exposition. The choice fell on Booker T.
Washington. His famous speech, which later became known as
"The Atlanta Compromise", lay heavily on his mind for many weeks
before its delivery. He wanted to cement racial relations as well
as to advance the status of his people. He was afraid of saying
something which might undermine the cause.
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