Malcolm X: A Tragic Hero

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Although he was originally enlightened and drawn to the teachings of Elijah Muhammad, tensions began to rise between the two figures as Malcolm gained popularity. The Nation of Islam began to worry that Malcolm possessed too much power and was only concerned with himself and was not supporting the interests of the Nation of Islam. Throughout the years, Malcolm came to the realization that Elijah Muhammad committed adultery and their relationship slowly broke apart. Following the death of President John F. Kennedy, Malcolm X was questioned in a press conference on his feelings following the tragedy. Malcolm showed no remorse and implied that the presidents death was deserved using an analogy about “chickens coming home to roost”. Malcolm used …show more content…
Although Malcolm perished that day, his teachings and influence live on forever today. Malcolm created an influence that will never perish and continues to thrive today through countless organizations and leaders. The independent stance that Little took upon leaving the Nation of Islam solidified his influence as a leader in the racial revolution and as a model for the fight against racism. His religious journey to Africa “marked him as a leader who could stand tall in the annals of African decolonization as well as the civil rights movement…” (Assensoh 2). Upon being relieved from the shackles of constraint that Elijah Muhammad and the Nation of Islam imposed on him, Malcolm unleashed his true influence. His trip to Africa proved that he was not only a religious leader, but a leader of an entire race. Malcolm was able to influence the masses by connecting with them through his educated voice and shared characteristics. People listened to Malcolm because he came from a similar background as the millions of people that attended his speeches. Malcolm obtained significant power and influence because he connected to his followers, which gave him extremely dedicated supporters. The extensive teachings and inspiration that Malcolm X brought to the Nation of Islam and the race revolution cannot be overstated and solidifies Malcolm as the single …show more content…
throughout his life. From an extremely early age, he witnessed horrible racism and hate. He experienced the horrific atrocities that racism brought when his father was killed and his mother was left with no money or hope. Although he was imprisoned at a young age, Malcolm knew he was destined to break the typical path of the African American male and he defied all odds against him and found solace in a prison cell in Charlestown. It is remarkable that someone who dropped out of High School and self educated himself could make such an impact on the world. He understood the importance of education on the future and knew that only an educated person could make an impact as big as he envisioned. He also knew that in order to continue the fight for equality, African Americans must become better educated and fight for their rights and constantly preached that in his teachings. His unique approach gave black organizations and people a sense of pride. As a result, African Americans everywhere were united with a sense of black pride that drove out racism. His influence has extended following his death to multiple organizations and leaders that have brought change. His philosophy of violence against racism has brought success in the fight for equality and caught the attention of many other nations fighting oppression who have duplicated his model, such as Congo
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