This book tracks the evolution of Malcolm X from a racist espousing the essentialist ideals of
the Nation of Islam to a human rights activist aware of the broader early 1960 s struggle
against imperial forces. Central to this was his strategic use of race to unite
African-American initially and then the oppressed people in the world. Race was used as a
strategy with the aim to abolish racial oppression. In the first chapter of this study we look
at the constraints most notably the white power structure present in the United States during
the mid-1960s which on one hand gave form to Malcolm s thinking and on the other made it
necessary for Malcolm to add an international dimension to his thinking. The second chapter
explores Malcolm s racial theorising in 1964-65 when he identified the two stages which were
necessary for the attainment of a colour-blind society. While Africa as both idea and place
served as a cultural base it also acted as a springboard to an international coalition of
oppressed people. By linking the domestic and the international politics of Malcolm X this
study highlights the sense of purpose with which Malcolm X articulated his arguments concerning
the future of the African-American community and their involvement in the American society.
