Malcolm X on Afro-American History

If only this were in the schools, especially for the teachers. Because although this is no proper textbook for history, it can be used as a guide into how to properly teach afro-american history to the youth. Malcolm, as well read as he is, references many books as he lucidly and easily brings together many parts of history, but more importantly, a view of history. And his view of history is well-informed, well-sourced, and so full of truth it hurts to listen. But truth in history if very important, and Malcolm helps us in our studies.

This little book packs a powerful punch. Malcolm X explains clearly, and often in a humorous way, how knowing the truth about your history is necessary for building a movement to tear down racism and build a better society. The heart of the book is a speech that Malcolm gave less than a month before his death. His point is that Black people have to become aware of their true accomplishments in the past in order to change the world in the present and future. By looking at ancient African civilizations, West African kingdoms, the rise of imperialism and the history of slavery in America, Malcolm shows that Black people have played a huge role in shaping human history. Even though he spoke at a time when Black History Month was still Black History Week, his message is still totally relevant as African-Americans still face the challenge of leading a movement that can end police brutality, racist violence, political oppression and economic exploitation, while joining up with working people and the oppressed around the world. The impact of Malcolm's speech is magnified by his own explanation of how he studied Black history while in prison; and by a nice set of graphics and maps which illustrate his points.

Reading this reminds me that Malcolm is not history, but someone dealing with problems we need to deal with in the present. Malcolm talks about history here in a way that gives me an idea not just about how good our history is for us to know, but in a way that he gives you the idea of what to do now, and even more importantly how to think. Malcolm was a man who very much wanted us to learn how to think for ourselves in order to lead a struggle against the exploitation and oppression Black and other working people face around the world. If you never read Malcolm X before, this is a good place to start. It is short, inexpensive, and clear. As always Malcolm has humor and wit, as well as wisdom and good political ideas on every page.

This priceless little book consists of a talk Malcolm X gave just a month before he was assassinated in 1965. You will find a rich analysis of then contemporary local, national and international issues, exposure of little-known African civilizations, and an inspiring perspective on advancing the Afro-American liberation struggle along with the struggles of other oppressed and exploited people throughout the world.

To oppress a people you have to suppress, or at least deny, its history. The oppression of Afro-Americans is no exception to this law. In a 1965 speech, as well as in selections from his Autobiography and other works, Malcolm X uncovers the real record of Africa, the slave system, neocolonialism, and what they mean for Blacks today. This book tells you a great deal why those who defended the political and economic status quo hated Malcolm X so much, and why youth seeking to fight that system see him as such an example.