Malcolm X example #71454

1952; renamed himself X to signify the loss of his African heritage; converted to Nation of Islam in jail in the 50s, became Black Muslims' most dynamic street orator and recruiter. Black Power and equality.

Malcolm's birth name. Endured years of exclusion. Early frustrations at the hands of white society unwilling to accept his efforts to fit in build a separatist fervor in Malcolm.

Malcolm's name as a hustler. Named Detroit Red for his bright red hair. Bad lifestyle because of his surroundings. Trusts no one, knows enemies well, and defends his public image.

Nickname in prison for his foul temper and preference for solitary confinement. Submits to moral authority, educates himself and changes his outlook. Time in prison was his transformation from suffering to faith and activism.

Starts as a religious leader and media personality. Shocks people with his distaste for white America. Tendency to let wisdom from experience influence his attitudes.

The name Malcolm X took after his pilgrimage to Mecca. Represents his faith in international Islam. Matured perspective on race. Harmony instead of separatism.

As a child, he is bright and popular but feels excluded by white people. He becomes a ruthless hustler in Boston and New York, but changes during his time in prison. Becomes a spokesman for the Nation of Islam - tolerant, meditative, and ambitious.

Leader of the Black Muslims and the Nation of Islam from 1934 until his death in 1975. He also was an early important teacher and mentor to Malcolm X but eventually became jealous of his success.

Malcolm's wife, a quiet and strong woman. secretary, housekeeper, confidant. She Endures his busy schedule, has 5 of his children, and witnesses his assassination.

Malcolm's best friend during his Boston years. A musician who at first leads and then follows Malcolm into a life of crime. Malcolm becomes an aggressive hustler while Shorty leads an normal life.

Malcolm's half-sister. Model of female strength and Black Pride, represents family unity. Welcomed Malcolm into her home in Boston and lent him money to travel to Mecca.

Father. preacher and outspoken political organizer. Assassinated by whites for preaching the black nationalist ideas of Marcus Garvey. Made him a martyr for black nationalism

Malcom's mother - fair skinned because she had a white father - eventually forced into a mental hospital after Earl Little's death. Symbol of the harm white government does when acting charitably.

Malcolm's white girlfriend. They use each other as status symbols. She represents the temptation of white women and makes Malcolm skeptical about interracial romance.

Malcolm's first date. Dumps Laura for Sophia. Laura falls into drugs and prostitution. Symbol of ruthless and self-hating behavior in urban black communities.

Harlem pimp and drug dealer. Friends until Malcolm assaults his girlfriend. Friendships can crumble when gambling, drugs, and violence are involved

Prison inmate that shows Malcolm X the power of independent thought - he also convinces Malcolm to convert to Islam

The world heavyweight boxing champion. Generous and understanding, Clay provides a place for Malcolm to stay during the first days of Malcolm's split from the Nation of Islam.

Malcolm's little brother. Protects Reginald in harlem, takes him under his wing. Malcolm justifies his insanity as retribution for sinning. Shows how committed Malcolm is to the principles of Islam. Disowns him after a vision.