The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Essay title: The Autobiography of Malcolm X
The Autobiography of Malcolm X as told by Alex Haley is about a man who changed the history of America. Malcolm (Little) X preached what he believed about racism, discrimination, and segregation. He went through many changes in his fight for equality. The three transformations that really changed the way Malcolm thought and preached where his transformation in prison, his transformation into the Islamic religion (following Elijah Muhammad), and the biggest transformation of all, his pilgrimage to Mecca. In all of Malcolm actions, teachings and transformations we learn different points of view and we get a good look at different aspects of events. The life of Malcolm (Little) X as told in his autobiography should be read by all.
Malcolm X while in prison completed his first transformation. Like many great figures and history makers had a low point in is life. At this time Malcolm was into drugs, hustling, women and money. He became so dependent
on making a lot of money he and some of his friends decided to rob the house of an old white man. They were caught for this crime and were not only charged with this crime but were also charged with having sex with white women. Malcolm and his friend “Shorty” were sentenced to six years in prison. The two white women that were Malcolm and Shorty’s accomplices were sentenced to a year in jail. During the first couple days of prison Malcolm was coming off a drug high and was having withdrawals. These withdrawals led Malcolm into solitary confinement for two months. When he was let out of his chamber he met the man that would later be responsible for Malcolm’s transformation. This man was a follower of the nation of Islam and the great Alijah Muhammad. Malcolm learned a great deal form him. This shows us that even in the worst of circumstances we can learn and become better. This transformation was a great test for Malcolm and starts to let us see what a great influence he would end up being in the lives of many Americans.
Malcolm’s second transformation was his immersion and dedication to the Nation of Islam. He followed the “great” Alijah Muhammad and his teachings. Malcolm started preaching to small amounts of followers. It did not take long for the word of Malcolm’s preaching to get into the community. Soon he had packed services and prayers. Malcolm’s participation in the Nation of Islam gave him a sense of direction. It made him feel like he was doing something. It was not long after that that Alijah himself was asking to talk to him. Malcolm then became a spokesperson for the Nation of Islam. This gave him power that Malcolm thrived off of. At this point in Malcolm’s life he has overcome great odds. He has overcome obstacles that not many do. He is becoming a nationally known figure in the struggle for equal rights for all. He is a great example of how even though the odds are against us that we can become successful members of society. During Malcolm’s time in the Nation of Islam he makes other fathers jealous and envious. It seems that not only the fathers, but also Alijah himself, are conspiring to get Malcolm out of the nation. They feel he is getting