NOTE: This is the only known recording of Washington's voice.
Unlike, some of his critics he had to negotiate with people who hated him. And, he was successful. He made them respect him - that's not easy. Reminded of my professor who used to say: "Be careful of presentism".
There's some value (and warnings, too) to be learned from his story.
He had few roadmaps.
Ol' Booker T. had to create his own road, and he got somethings wrong, but, he did get that road built.
And, we're all benefactors driving on it, now -- opining about out it now.