LIFE
When and where were you born?
I WAS born on May 19, 1925 in Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
What was your greatest achievement or contribution to humanity?
I fought for African Americans to have rights, identity, and respect.
Did you win any awards, medals or recognition?
No formal scientific or sporting awards, but public and political recognition: he was a respected leader, a famous orator.
What schools did you attend?
I studied in public schools, but never finished my studies.
What was happening in Mexico during the assassination of Malcolm X?
In Mexico, when Gustavo Diaz ruled, there was a time of autototalitarianism and political control.
What was your family like?
My family was a close-knit family, but they lived in fear because of racism.
How did you start his career or main job?
I was in prison, where I read a lot, converted to Islam (Nation of Islam), and then began preaching and organizing temples.
What was happening in the world during your lifetime?
It was the Cold War, racial segregation in the US, civil rights struggles, important social changes.
Did you have any unusual hobbies or pastimes?
I really liked to read, study and learn
What was happening in Mexico during the years when Malcolm X was an activist?
Mexico was experiencing the so-called Mexican miracle, with economic growth.
Was there any important event in your childhood that left a mark on you?
Yes, I experienced the death of his father and the racism he experienced.
What did you invent, discover or create?
I didn’t invent gadgets, but I created powerful ideas, founding organizations like the Afro-American Unity Organization and the newspaper “Muhammad Speaks.”
Did you defend any social or political cause?
Yes, the cause of civil rights for African Americans, racial justice, Black identity, equality.
Were you a good cook, musician or amateur artist?
I’m not known much as a cook or artist, but more as a speaker and writer.
What was happening during the civil rights movement in the USA led by M.X?
In Mexico there was no similar movement, but criticism of the regime was beginning to emerge.
Did you have any nicknames or special names during your life?
Yes, in prison they called me “Detroit Red” And later I was known as Malcolm X.
At what age did he start to be recognized?
When I got out of prison in my late 20s-early 30s, I was already known.
Did you have enemies or people who opposed your ideas?
Yes, both within the Nation of Islam and outside: critics of nonviolence, other leaders, people who didn't accept his strong ideas.
How did you normally dress?
Well-groomed when I was preaching, in a suit, formal presentation.
What was happening in Mexico during the time Malcolm X began his political activism?
Mexico was governed by the PRI and there was political stability.
Were you married or had a partner? Did you have children?
Yes, I married Betty Shabazz and had six daughters.
Did he write any important books, essays, or letters?
Yes, my autobiography is very famous.
How did your work influence your community?
In my African-American community I helped them see themselves with more pride and strength, to not accept injustice, and gave a voice to those who did not have one.
What language(s) did he speak?
English and very little Arabic.
What was happening during the debates between the positions of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X?
In Mexico, social movements were brewing that would lead to protests.