Malcolm X’s legacy is explored in a new book that honors the influential leader, originally born Malcolm Little a century ago in Omaha, Nebraska. He embraced Islam in the 1950s, shedding his “slave name,” and emerged as a prominent voice for extremists during the civil rights movement. Tragically, he was assassinated in New York in 1965 at just 39 years old.
This work isn’t just a biography. Author Mark Whitaker describes it as “the story of Malcolm’s story,” emphasizing the journey and evolution of Malcolm X beyond just his achievements.
Whitaker points out that many narratives have been created around Malcolm’s life, including Alex Haley’s writings for his autobiography and Spike Lee’s film about him. As an established journalist and former editor at Newsweek, Whitaker’s latest book is his fifth. He weaves in a true crime aspect, delving into the murder that took place at the Audubon Ballroom and how two men were wrongfully imprisoned for it.
Whitaker’s motivation to write this book stemmed from his previous works that documented Black history, particularly in the context of the civil rights movement. Initially, he hesitated, thinking Malcolm’s assassination precluded his relevance to the discussions surrounding Black Power in 1966. However, as he explored Malcolm’s legacy, he recognized the profound impact Malcolm had on the era.
In 1966, Malcolm’s autobiography was released in paperback, becoming a bestseller while he played a crucial role in promoting Black Studies in educational institutions.
As a teenager, Whitaker was inspired by Malcolm’s autobiographical account of his transformation from a difficult upbringing to a powerful activist, contrasting sharply with figures like Martin Luther King Jr., who championed non-violent protest. Whitaker was aware of the tensions between Malcolm and Elijah Muhammad, which ultimately led to Malcolm’s assassination. His previous writing on Malcolm, including coverage of Spike Lee’s film, has informed his understanding of the complex dynamics at play.
Tasked with finishing the book in time for Malcolm’s centennial, Whitaker felt his experiences as a journalist helped him meet his deadlines, though he aimed to create something unique among the existing narratives.
“Each story about Malcolm has its nuances,” Whitaker said, acknowledging the different interpretations and sometimes conflicting portrayals found in biographies. For instance, while Alex Haley offered a more sanitized version of Malcolm’s journey, other biographers sought to maintain his radical essence.
Whitaker noted that Malcolm’s legacy resonates through various cultural realms, including sports, with significant figures like Muhammad Ali and Tommy Smith drawing inspiration from him. Even Clarence Thomas, a conservative Supreme Court justice, has cited Malcolm’s teachings, highlighting the multifaceted nature of Malcolm’s impact.
This duality in Malcolm’s message—emphasizing self-reliance and economic empowerment—still holds relevance today. After returning from Mecca and encountering different perspectives on race, he began to reshape his views on white individuals, further complicating his narrative.
Whitaker reflects on how examining Malcolm X’s life offers insight into African American cultural history over the past six decades, spanning movements from the Black Arts to hip-hop. He finds a connection in how conversations around race and identity continue to evolve in today’s political landscape—especially as social media shapes discourse in more direct and relatable ways.
In contrast to his contemporary, King, whose speeches often feel historical and majestic, Malcolm’s voice remains relatable and immediate. When listening to his speeches today, it’s almost as if he’s addressing current issues directly. This enduring relevance is what Whitaker aims to capture in his exploration of Malcolm’s life and legacy.
