Malcolm X and Black Power Flashcards

Who was Malcolm X?

He was a US civil rights leader who lived from 1925 to 1965. He spoke for black pride, self-defence and black control of black communities.

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What does the 'X' in Malcolm X's name stand for?

It showed he had lost his family name to slavery. He used X to reject his 'slave name'.

What was the Nation of Islam and why was it important to Malcolm X?

It was a black Muslim group. He joined it in prison, became its best speaker, and spread its call for pride, discipline and separate black communities.

What did Malcolm X mean by 'by any means necessary'?

That black people should use any method, including self-defence, to win freedom and equality.

How did Malcolm X's views change after his 1964 trip to Mecca?

He saw Muslims of many races worship together. He became more open to working with other groups and wanted to fight racism everywhere, not just through strict separation.

When and by whom was Malcolm X assassinated?

He was shot dead in New York on 21 February 1965 by members of the Nation of Islam.

What does 'Black Power' mean in the 1960s Civil Rights movement?

Pride in being black, control of black communities, self-reliance and, if needed, self-defence.

Who popularised the slogan 'Black Power' and when?

Stokely Carmichael, a student civil rights leader, made it famous in 1966.

What was the Black Panther Party and what did it do?

It was a Black Power group set up in 1966 by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale. It opposed police racism, ran free breakfasts and health clinics, and used armed patrols for self-defence.

Why did Black Power grow in northern cities?

Many black people faced poor housing, low pay and police racism. They felt non-violent protests had not improved life in the ghettos.

What happened at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics linked to Black Power?

US sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised a black-gloved fist on the podium. They were sent home from the Games.

How did Malcolm X and Black Power influence the civil rights movement?

They shifted focus to northern cities and everyday racism. They boosted black pride and pushed for more control over schools, housing and policing.

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