Black Power Flashcards
Why was there a growth of Black power movements?
Impatience with the pace and extent of civil rights reform,
Why was there a growth of Black power movements?
Impatience with the pace and extent of civil rights reform
limited gains of legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
increasing disillusionment with nonviolent resistance, after events like the Birmingham Campaign and the Selma March, which were met with violent opposition.
rise of racial pride and identity, influenced by the global decolonisation movements, and inspired by Malcolm X’s rhetoric,self determination
Violent responses from police during race riots, particularly in urban centres like Watts in 1965, which made many African Americans feel that peaceful methods were insufficient for combating systemic racism
How did the Black Power Movement impact Civil Rights?
- The Black Power Movement helped shift the focus from integration to self-reliance, pride, and cultural identity
- encouraged African Americans to assert their own political and cultural values rather than seeking approval from white society.
- shifted tactics, favouring self-defence and militant strategies over nonviolence, which influenced the direction of future activism.
- creating political consciousness, leading to increased African American voter participation and political representation.
- influenced the growth of organisations like the Black Panther Party and the rise of black pride in music, fashion, and culture.
Who was Elijah Muhammad?
Elijah Muhammad was the leader of the Nation of Islam (NOI) from 1934 until his death in 1975. He was a key figure in the development of the Black Power Movement and emphasised black nationalism, self-sufficiency, and separation from white society.
What was the Nation of Islam?
The Nation of Islam (NOI) is a religious movement founded in the 1930s, based on black nationalist and religious teachings. It promoted the idea that African Americans should establish their own separate communities and institutions, and it taught that Black people were the original people of the Earth, while white people were a “race of devils.”
What did Elijah Muhammad insist on?
Elijah Muhammad insisted on black economic self-sufficiency, separate institutions, and a moral code that included discipline, self-respect, and community service. He also promoted a message of black pride and empowerment and preached that African Americans should focus on building their own businesses, schools, and communities rather than seeking integration into white society.
Who was Malcolm X and why did he grow disillusioned with the Nation of Islam?
Malcolm X was one of the most prominent members of the Nation of Islam, known for his powerful oratory skills and advocacy for black nationalism. However, he grew disillusioned with the organisation after Elijah Muhammad’s moral failings were revealed (he had extramarital affairs with NOI secretaries). Malcolm X also became disillusioned with the Nation’s strict teachings and its separatist ideology after going on a pilgrimage to Mecca in 1964, where he encountered Muslims of all races, which led him to believe in the possibility of racial unity.
What did Malcolm X do?
After leaving the Nation of Islam in 1964, Malcolm X began to advocate for a more inclusive vision of racial justice, focusing on human rights and international solidarity. He founded the Organisation of Afro-American Unity (OAAU) and traveled widely, meeting with leaders from Africa and the Middle East, including Algeria, where he became involved in pan-Africanism. His ideas evolved towards promoting unity among all people who suffered under oppression.
When was Malcolm X assassinated?
Malcolm X was assassinated on February 21, 1965, while giving a speech in New York City. He was shot by members of the Nation of Islam, who still saw him as a traitor.
What happened in the 1968 Olympics?
During the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City, two African American athletes, Tommie Smith and John Carlos, raised their fists in a Black Power salute during the medal ceremony after winning gold and bronze in the 200m race. This was a protest against racial injustice in the United States.
What was the impact of the 1968 Olympics?
The Black Power salute became a powerful symbol of defiance and solidarity with the Civil Rights Movement. It brought global attention to the struggle for racial equality in America and highlighted the intersection of sports and politics. The athletes faced backlash and were suspended from the Games, but their protest was seen as a turning point in the visibility of the Black Power movement.
Who is Stokely Carmichael?
Stokely Carmichael was a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement and the Black Power Movement. He was best known for his leadership in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and later as a leader of the Black Panther Party.
What did Stokely Carmichael do?
In 1966, Carmichael popularised the phrase “Black Power” during his time with SNCC
He advocated for black pride, self-defence, and autonomy
emphasised that African Americans should not wait for white people to give them freedom
shift toward more militant rhetoric and support for the Black Panther Party marked a departure from the nonviolent approach of earlier Civil Rights leaders.
What was the impact of Stokely Carmichael?
Carmichael’s advocacy for Black Power helped shift the focus of the Civil Rights Movement towards black nationalism and self-determination
His rhetoric influenced other groups like the Black Panther Party and gave rise to a more radical and confrontational form of activism
His ideas resonated with younger black activists and helped define the more militant phase of the movement in the late 1960s.
What were the Watts Riots?
The Watts Riots were a series of violent protests and riots in the Watts neighbourhood of Los Angeles from August 11-16, 1965. Triggered by an incident of police brutality, the riots were fuelled by frustrations over poverty, racial discrimination, and lack of economic opportunity in African American communities.
