Abstract
Du Bois', 'Darkwater' compiles varied genres of writing, discussing the standing of the African Americans in the early 20th century in the US society. Initially published in 1920, the issues of World War I backdrop a discussion of the American government in relation to the country's racial relations. World War I marks the first, most notable entry of the United States into foreign diplomatic affairs after the emancipation of American slaves in the Civil War. The station of the black soldier, who dies for his country abroad is made a second-rate citizen at home, made the issue of black rights in relation to global society even more prevalent in the time period. Du Bois attempts to discuss race on a transnational level and create national awareness. In 'Darkwater', Du Bois discusses the abridgment of democracy for the coloured global citizen and calls for a reformation of the current form of democracy which allows such inequality at home. Du Bois faults this inequality and the lower standing of African Americans to the withholding of education for them. Du Bois's Darkwater opens the discussion of national race issue through the avenue of the global colour line, and, by showing the history of suppression of African advancement both abroad and at home.
