Comparing The Life And Leadership Of Dr. Martin Luther King And Malcolm X

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Recommended: Political decisions influenced by religion

The Civil Rights Movement was a critical event that is important in African American History. From the 1950’s to the mid 1960’s, civil rights activists and leaders rose up across the nation to fight for equal rights and against discrimination. Even local citizens such as Rosa Parks, took a stand against segregation on public transportation. Others also participated in "sit-ins" inside diners for "whites only". Although people expressed the need for equality, many efforts were shot down. Things began to change in the Jim Crow south when a young pastor named Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led the largest civil rights boycott against the Montgomery, Alabama bus system. Through his charisma and commitment, Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the strongest and influential civil rights activists. Nevertheless, he was not the only one in the fight for equality.

A revolutionary by the name of Malcolm Little, later changing his name to Malcolm X, rose up and created the belief of Black Nationalism. Malcolm X believed in fighting the enemy (white people) and creating a segregated Black community through forceful measures. Dr. King however desired to bring change by peaceful protest and reached out to all races to join the battle against segregation. We can compare the lives and ideals of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X and say they have the same ideas, but their methods and desires for change are much different.

Martin Luther King and Malcolm X developed their positions and philosophies as a result of their personal experience in a Jim Crow nation that legalized and institutionalized discrimination. Malcolm Little was born May 19, 1925 in Omaha, Nebraska. His father Earl Little was a Baptist preacher and a follower of Marcus Garvey. His mo...

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...g in the same direction. They imagined that America would become a better nation if racism was conquered and believed spiritualism can aid the nation with this process. Both men ultimately became towering icons of contemporary African-American culture and had a great influence on black Americans.

Works Cited

“About Malcolm X.” The Official Web Site of Malcolm X. 15 Apr. 2008 .

“Biographical Outline of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” The King Center. 2003. The King Center. 15 Apr. 2008 .

F, Mark. “Malcolm X.” The Biography Channel: 1-4. 15 Apr. 2008 .

“Martin Luther King Jr.” Black History. Gale Cengage Learning. 2008. 15 Apr. 2008 .

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