In the book Washington describes his experiences growing up in slavery and his efforts to gain an education and improve his life. He also discusses his work as a teacher and founder of the Tuskegee Institute a historically black college in Alabama. Throughout the book Washington emphasizes the importance of education and hard work in achieving success and overcoming the legacy of slavery and racism in the United States. He also discusses the role of African Americans in American society and their potential to contribute to the country''s economic and cultural development.