Chapter 22.3 Challenges for the Civil Rights Movement As the Civil Rights movement dragged on, some African Americans questioned the effectiveness of nonviolent protests.
New Groups Form Black Muslims Aka Nation of Islam Started in 1930 by Wallace D. Fard Based on Islamic religion Emphasized black supremacy over all other nations
Rules for Black Muslims Very strict Were not permitted from taking aid from “White America” Could not join the military Must depend on themselves in order to survive! By 1960’s Over 100,000 members in society.
Black Muslims Need a Leader Malcolm Little Young African American was spending 10 years in jail for burglary Studied the Nation of Islam and their beliefs Embraced the teachings of Muhammad Released from jail in 1952 Changes name to Malcolm X
Malcolm X’s Belief in Black Power Malcolm X believed African Americans needed to fight for their freedom “If something is yours by right, then fight for it or shut up!” Was against nonviolent protests “Any Negro who teaches other Negroes to turn the other cheek is disarming that Negro of his right to defend himself”
Malcolm X takes trip to the Holy Land Mecca, Malcolm X travels to Islamic world capital. Changes his views on life. He leaves the Black Muslims Wants to have races work together. No longer hates whites or any other races. “We will work with anyone, as long as they are genuinely interested in taking the type of steps necessary to bring an end to the injustices that black people in this country are afflicted by.”
February 1965 Malcolm X is assassinated by 3 Black Muslim assassins during a speech. Black Muslims continued to preach Black Power! Called for African Americans to start own nation in USA Based on Racial pride Interests in African culture and heritage
Symbol of Black Power Black Panther Party Based on ideas of self protection Had own military Mostly young men from the streets Wanted to protect their neighborhoods from white cops What could go wrong?
California Riots 1965-1968
St. Louis Riots 1965-1970
Chicago Riots 1965 -1970
Riots in 100 cities in USA from 1965- 1968
Meanwhile, Martin Luther King Jr. tries to keep the peace Gives speeches all across US asking for riots to stop Demands all Americans to respect each other and move forward!
Tragedy strikes in Memphis, Tennessee Martin Luther King, Jr. was in town to give a speech to workers on strike April 4, 1968 MLK Jr was gunned down outside his hotel room by James Earl Ray Riots would last a week! 3,200 people injured Dozens killed
Funeral For MLK Jr. had over 30,000 people attend
Martin Luther King Memorial Washington, D.C.