From humble beginnings to one of the country’s civil rights pioneers — that’s the amazing story of Booker T. Washington. It’s a story of perseverance, determination, and overcoming racist adversity.

Born into slavery on a Virginia plantation in 1856, Washington rose to prominence as an educator, scholar, and presidential adviser. He also founded a college for black people in America. Booker T. Washington is unquestionably one of this country’s greatest heroes.