The problem of the twentieth century, as written by WEB Du Bois in Souls of Black Folk, was the “color line problem.” By the time Du Bois wrote his novel, racial segregation was institutionalized in the American system. The Soul of Black People broadens the reader's mindset, as it gives the reader a deeper understanding of the challenges that African Americans have faced. After the end of the Civil War and the emancipation of slaves in 1862, Republicans in Congress passed several laws and amendments to protect black rights and prohibit racial discrimination, such as the Civil Acts of 1866 and the Civil Rights Act of 1875 Du Bois examines the mismanagement of these acts, particularly the Freedmen's Bureau's role in Reconstruction. The Bureau's failure was due not only to Southern opposition or neglect, but also to mismanagement and courts biased "in favor of black accusers." Despite numerous laws passed to aid freedmen during this period, the status of African Americans from Emancipation in the early 20th century did not evolve much. For example, the Civil Rights Acts of 1875 were passed to prohibit segregation in public facilities, but despite its intentions African Americans were still discriminated against and would eventually be restricted and segregated in society and under government rulings. The end of the Civil War ushered in an era of Reconstruction intended to improve the lives of African Americans. However, many remained with their owners because they knew nothing outside of the plantations. However, others have left in search of a better life, but soon encounter barricades such as white supremacists and their laws. Under the leadership of the President…half of the document…achieving this goal is very different. In his book, Du Bois especially criticizes Booker T. Washington for promoting misconceptions among blacks. Washington was one of the people who suggested that whites should provide economic stability to blacks and that they would stop advocating for civil rights or social equality. He believes that over time blacks would become indispensable to whites if they had an economic foothold and then they would be guaranteed civil rights and social equality. He urged blacks to find skilled jobs or work as farmers, laborers, or domestic servants, because he believes that economic respectability should be the more important issue for African Americans rather than civil rights and social equality. He also urged blacks to accept the reality of white supremacy, discrimination and segregation with the hope that one day they will achieve equality..