Malcolm X: A Tragic Hero

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Malcolm X

Malcolm X was born Malcolm Little on May 19, 1925 in Omha, NE. African American leader and prominent figure in the Nation of Islam who articulated concepts of race pride and black nationalism in the early 1960s. After his assassination, the widespread distribution of his life story—The Autobiography of Malcolm X (1965)—made him an ideological hero, especially among black youth.

Malcolm X was one if not the greatest and most influential African American in history because he refuse to be silent on issues affecting African Americans. Malcolm was a courageous advocate for the rights of blacks, he was very outspoken and unafraid to speak out. Malcolm was loved and hated by many, for his views that African Americans deserve a seat …show more content…

His father was killed in a hit and run accident when Malcolm was only six years old. Many people suspected that he was killed by whites because he was outspoken preacher. In the black church. Malcolm mother went crazy after his father death and was placed In a mental institution. Malcolm and his siblings bounced in and out of foster homes. Malcolm was declared “ mentally disqualified for military service.

With no guidance, Malcolm became engaged in the street life and at age 20 he was arrested and imprisoned for larceny and breaking and entering. While in prison, Malcolm began to study law and religion. He joined a nation of Islam under the direction of the honorable Elijah Muhmmad. After his release from prison, Malcolm dedicate his life to educating and mobilizing African Americans to become less reliant on the white man and more reliant on themselves.

While giving a “ Black Empowerment ” speech at a mosque in Harlem on February 21,1965, Malcolm X was shot several times by unknown gunmen. Malcolm died few days later leaving behind a wife and six children. Malcolm's funeral was attended by 14,000-30,000 mourners. Malcolm was an excellent father who taught his children to stand up for what is right “by any manes necessary” his wife did her best to carry on his legacy until the she died but the world has change so much that it seems “the movement” died with Malcolm