Contents
Malcolm X
Advocating Black self-determination and challenging racism in America.
The Ballot or the Bullet · The Autobiography of Malcolm X
- Born
- 19 May 1925
- Birthplace
- Omaha, Nebraska, United States
- Died
- 21 February 1965
More people
Malcolm X
Malcolm X was an American Muslim minister and organiser whose speeches demanded dignity and self-defence for Black Americans. His outlook evolved after leaving the Nation of Islam and travelling abroad.
Early life
Racial violence
His family faced white-supremacist harassment during his childhood.
Prison education
Read extensively while imprisoned and joined the Nation of Islam.
Career
- 1952
Religious organising
Began working as a Nation of Islam minister after release.
- 1950s–1963
National spokesman
Built congregations and became a prominent public voice.
- 1964
Independent organisations
Founded Muslim Mosque, Inc. and the Organization of Afro-American Unity.
Selected work
The Ballot or the Bullet
Urged political organisation and challenged denial of voting rights.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Life story developed with Alex Haley and published after his assassination.
Beyond work
Pilgrimage
His 1964 Mecca visit helped change his views on racial separation.
Family
Married Betty Shabazz in 1958; they had six daughters.
Sources & photo credit
Biography ↗Life and work ↗Photo: Eddie Adams. Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
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