2.3: Malcolm X and Black Power, 1963-70 Flashcards
What were Malcolm X’ beliefs
Believed that white Americans could not help black Americans achieve equality.
However, in 1964 he left the National of Islam and challanged their idea about Islam and race after his pilgrimage to Mecca. He believed integration was possible.
What methods did Malcolm X use
He thought non-violent direct action would never work, as black Americans would never be consdjered equal
His speech in June 1964 said that black people should defend themselves ‘by any means necessary’ -equality was not possible unless forced
What were Malcom X involved in
Effective oublic speaker with conviction and passion
He joined the Nation of Islam in prison
Set up the Orginsation of Afro-American Unity. It united all people of African descenr and achieved political and economic dependence from white Americans
What were the Nation of Islam
Radical group that mixed idea from Islam and black seperatism. They believed Black Americans needed their own seperate states that was independent from white Americans.
What were Malcolm X’s changes in attitude and what happened as a result
Set his own religious group x Muslim Mosque, Inc. in 1964.
He travelled to Mecca in April 1964 and rejected old beliefs about seperatism. He worked with other civil right groups SNCC and CORE and set up OAAU (Organisation of Afro-American Unity) in 1964
However, he was sent death threats and had his house firebombed. He died on 21 Febuary 1965
Why did Black Power emerge
Rejected non-violence:
Results were roo slow and did not have enough impact
Integration relied on black Americans fitting into white society that had treated tgem badly
Ideas:
Malcolm X influence
Demanded change to improve position of black Americans
Beleved self dedende is justified
Campaigning:
Focused on wider social issues of poverty and unemployment.
Got involved in wider campaigns like anti-war Vietnam War Movement
Significance of Stokely Carmichael
Many black Americans dissatisifed that not poloticsl parties focused on black rights.
Stokely Carmichael helped set up the Lowndes County Freedom Organisation as a party to concentrate issues mostly affecting black Americans.
In May1966, Carmichael was chairman if the SNCC. He wanted a more radical approach to equality.
‘Match against Fear’ took place in Mississippi in June 1966. James Meredith was shot and hospitalised on the second day so King and Stokely Carmichael led it.
Significance of 1968 Mexico Olympics
Opportunity for black American athletes to show support for Black Power. Tommie Smith and John Carlos won gold and bronze in the 200 metre.
Dueing the medal ceremony they raised their fists in the Black Power salute. However, they were widely critcised and banned from the team.
Many Americans supported their stand and making their political view public
What were the Black Panthers
A group which aimed to achieve a radical social and economic revolution in the USA. However, they also do other thinsg e.g support black Americans in poverty.
What did the Black Panthers do
Believed black people needed black officials and black police to support the community.
They were prepared to work with white poeple who held the same belief.
‘Ten-point plan’ to transform society, end capitalism,free healthcare and end wars.
Breakfast clubs which supported poor childre, gave healthcare and clothing
Weapons and tape recording held for defence
When were the black panthers created
Set up in 1966 by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale
