American Experience

S06E05 Malcolm X: Make It Plain

Malcolm X embodied the anger, struggle, and relentless pursuit of freedom for Black Americans during the sixties. Initially known as Malcolm Little in Omaha, he later adopted the street name "Detroit Red" while hustling. After serving time in prison, he emerged as a powerful and passionate voice for the Nation of Islam. Following a transformative pilgrimage to Mecca, he showed a newfound openness to collaborating with white allies. The circumstances surrounding his assassination and the motives behind it remain shrouded in mystery.