Civil Rights Leaders
Three Big Gamechangers
The three biggest people in the civil rights movement were Martin Luther King Jr., John F. Kennedy, and Malcolm X. All three, at some point in their lives, had a nonviolent approach to the movement, although early on Malcolm X was more on the radical side. All three tried their very best to make significant changes to society.
Martin Luther King Jr.
Gave speeches for nonviolence and preached Christian ways. His dad was also a priest, which helped him in his promotion of nonviolence, as it was what he had been taught his whole life. He lead many successful marches.
John F. Kennedy
Took the opportunity of presidency to help African-Americans gain their rights. Often gave protection to civil rights leaders and always was trying to pass laws and amendments to
Malcolm X
Originally preached against whites, then returned from the Hajj to Mecca and sided with nonviolence and equality. Had close ties to the Islamic Religion and worked very closely with Elijah Mohammed until the release of Mohammed's scandal. Served ten yearsin prison for theft where he found interest in literature and the teachings of Islam.
The Same Goal
The Similarities
Although they did it in different ways and from different positions, all three of these men fought for the same goal: racial equality. Each man contributed a great deal to the movement in any way they couls. All three were very influential speakers. Each of these men deserve large amounts of credit for the amount of work they did for the Civil Rights Movement.