W.E.B. Du Bois Resigns from NAACP in 1934

Name: W.E.B. Du Bois Resigns from NAACP in 1934
Start: 1868-06-26
Location: Unspecified

The Impactful Resignation of W.E.B. Du Bois

In 1934, the renowned civil rights activist and scholar W.E.B. Du Bois made a pivotal decision to resign from his position at the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People), a leading civil rights organization which he helped to establish. This moment marked a significant turning point not only in Du Bois's life but also in the broader context of the civil rights movement.

Du Bois, who believed passionately in the fight for African American rights, had been a prominent figure in the NAACP since its inception in 1909. His resignation raised questions about the direction of the organization, which had begun to adopt a more cautious approach under the leadership of Walter White, contrasting with Du Bois's radical vision for equality and social justice.

W.E.B. Du Bois's Vision

Du Bois's extensive body of work and advocacy had always emphasized the necessity for political activism and intellectual leadership among African Americans. He pushed for a more assertive approach toward racial issues, arguing that African Americans needed to demand their rights fiercely rather than wait for gradual change.

NAACP's Changing Direction

At the time of his resignation, the NAACP was increasingly focusing on legal challenges and more mainstream civil rights tactics. This approach frustrated Du Bois, who felt that the NAACP was straying from its foundational mission of radical social change.

The Aftermath of Du Bois's Resignation

Following his resignation, W.E.B. Du Bois continued to promote his views through other avenues, notably founding the publication The Crisis, which provided a platform for African American writers and activists.

Life After the NAACP

Du Bois's departure from the NAACP did not hinder his commitment to advocating for African American rights. He later became a member of the Communist Party and continued his activism until his death, influencing generations of civil rights leaders.

The Legacy of His Resignation

Today, Du Bois's resignation is often viewed as a bold stand for the radical change that many activists believed was necessary to achieve true equality. His contributions to the civil rights movement are still celebrated and examined, showcasing the tension between different strategies within the movement.

Fun Fact

W.E.B. Du Bois's Interesting Fact

Did you know that W.E.B. Du Bois was the first African American to earn a PhD from Harvard University? His academic background significantly shaped his views and activism, making him one of the leading intellectuals of his time.