Malcolm X was an African-American Muslim priest, human rights activist, and prominent leader of black nationalists who served as president of the Nation of Islam during the 1950s and 1960s. As an excellent speaker, Malcolm X managed to get his numerous listeners to his side. His speeches addressed the identity, uncompromisingness and independence of blacks, and he encouraged his followers to defend themselves “by any means,” including violent means if necessary.
Malcolm X fell victim to assassins in February 1965. His legacy is evident in society and popular culture to this day: Malcolm helped, among other things, change the terms Negro and colored to their current forms of black and African American. The later Black Power movement was based on his criticism and ideals.
