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“My ambition is to build an industrial school in Africa.”

Source: Address to the National Negro Business League convention, Chicago, 23 August 1912

Context Closing her unscheduled address, she told Black business delegates how she meant to spend her growing hair-care earnings.

Portrait of Madam C. J. Walker
Madam C. J. WalkerUnited States · 1867–1919
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More words from Madam C. J. Walker

“I am a woman who came from the cotton fields of the South. From there I was promoted to the wash-tub. Then I was promoted to the cook kitchen, and from there I promoted myself into the business of manufacturing hair goods and preparations.”
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“I am not ashamed of my past. I am not ashamed of my humble beginning.”
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“I hope you will catch the inspiration, grasp the opportunity to do something.”
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“If I have accomplished anything in life it is because I have been willing to work hard.”
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“There is no royal and flower strewn road to success, and if there is I have not found it…”
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“I know how to grow hair as well as I know to grow cotton.”
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