@lambchop
Martin Luther JR. day tm, but first,
malcolm x (1925–1965) was a civil rights leader, minister, and political thinker who became one of the most influential black nationalist voices in american history. he rose to prominence as a spokesperson for the nation of islam, where he advocated for black self-determination, economic independence, and self-defense in response to racial violence.
he sharply criticized racial integration when it was not paired with real power or safety, and he challenged both white supremacy and what he viewed as the limitations of mainstream civil rights leadership. through speeches, debates, and media appearances, he brought national attention to systemic racism in the united states.
in 1964, malcolm x left the nation of islam and undertook extensive international travel, including a pilgrimage to mecca, which significantly influenced his political and religious views. afterward, he founded the organization of afro-american unity and began advocating for human rights on a global scale, seeking to link the black american struggle to international anti-colonial movements.
he was assassinated in 1965 at the age of 39. his autobiography remains a foundational text in american political and social thought.