Similarities Between Martin Luther King Jr And Malcolm X

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During the early 1960s, when the civil rights movement was at its zenith, there was a resurgence of distinguished activists with similar goals, but differing methods on how to actualize those goals and solve the pressing issues that plagued black Americans. Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent leader in the black community who drew heavily from his religious background to preach peaceful protests and encourage others to achieve equality and justice through nonviolent resistance. Radical opposition would hinder progress and ultimately hurt the cause. Malcolm X was equal in stature, but his views conflicted with Martin Luther King Jr. He understood that demanding equality and justice for the black community would result in violence, but instead of being the victims, he believed in utilizing that …show more content…

Martin Luther King Jr. believed love conquers all. While Malcolm X’s philosophy was similar to the eye for an eye principle. Martin Luther King Jr. viewed the source of hate was the institutions that taught hate, not the individual. Malcolm X believed it was both. Martin Luther King Jr. wanted to lead with love and compassion the same way God does. While Malcolm X wanted to disillusion black Americans and embolden them to defend themselves against the enemy: white men. However, the violence that erupted was used to further negative black stereotypes. As for nonviolent resisters, they were admired and influential. People of different race, creed, and ethnicity grew to support their cause and marched alongside them. Martin Luther King Jr. left an esteemed legacy of peace, love, and prosperity that continued long after his assassination. While, Malcolm X is still regarded as controversial. Both leaders changed the landscape for Civil Rights, but Martin Luther King Jr.’s teachings have grown to become a universal method in combating