During the 20th century, two prominent political leaders were driving forces of the civil rights movement. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X were key catalysts during the time period, most noted for their devout, and distinct ideologies. Both Martin Luther King and Malcolm X combatted tirelessly for the beliefs and changes they wanted to see manifested for African Americans. Although their approaches to acquiring these changes were contrasting they both had their similar appeals as well. King was from a middle class background, with an education gained, while Malcolm was more of an underprivileged person who had little schooling. Martin Luther King Jr. was for the most part one in avoidance of violence during his time; his tactics were much …show more content…
Taking place on August 28th 1963, to an audience of over 20,000 people the march for freedom was strong. Dr.King wished for union, and harmony within the races, so the hate and relentless violence could cease. However, Malcolm X maintained a differing idea of what freedom truly meant, for his vision was one that entailed that the integration of blacks and whites would lead to a detrimental outcome, for he believed that black Americans needed to be focused on forming a strong, unified community that is dignified in who they are solely.
Both leaders encompassed greatness, MLK resorted to more of a non-violent approach, one that was generally passive resistance, or “weapons of love “as he deemed it. Whereas Malcolm X was more cynical of the white man, and was keen on focusing on the welfare of black people as a means to gain equality without union of all. The black power movement’s ideology was necessary in my opinion, because a certain separateness was vital in realizing the self determination that was needed for the welfare of black people during this