Malcolm X
- Born:
- Malcolm Little; May 19, 1925; Omaha, Nebraska, United States
- Died:
- February 21, 1965; New York City, New York, United States
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Minister, Human Rights Activist
Early Life and Education
- Early life marked by racism and violence, including the murder of his father, allegedly by white supremacist groups.
- Spent time in foster care after his mother's mental health deteriorated.
- Dropped out of school after a teacher told him his dream of becoming a lawyer was unrealistic for a Black person.
- Engaged in petty crime and drug dealing in his youth, leading to imprisonment.
Career and Major Achievements
- While incarcerated, he embraced the Nation of Islam and dedicated himself to their teachings.
- Changed his surname to X, symbolizing the rejection of his slave name and embracing his lost African ancestral identity.
- Became a prominent minister and national spokesperson for the Nation of Islam.
- Advocated for Black separatism and self-determination.
- Left the Nation of Islam in 1964 due to ideological differences with Elijah Muhammad.
- Founded Muslim Mosque, Inc. and the Organization of Afro-American Unity.
- His views evolved to embrace a more inclusive approach to racial equality, emphasizing pan-Africanism and international solidarity.
- Made a pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) which significantly impacted his perspective on race and Islam.
Notable Works
- Speeches and debates that challenged racial inequality and promoted Black empowerment.
- Letters from Abroad, a collection of letters written during his travels.
- The autobiography, saint gemma galgani autobiography of malcolm x, co-authored with Alex Haley and published posthumously, is a seminal work.
Legacy and Impact
Malcolm X remains a highly influential figure in the history of the Civil Rights Movement. His powerful speeches and unwavering commitment to Black liberation continue to inspire generations. While his early advocacy for Black separatism was controversial, his later emphasis on self-determination and pan-Africanism left a lasting mark on the struggle for racial equality.