Which civil rights leader is known for advocating armed self-defense?

• A. Martin Luther King Jr.
• B. Malcolm X
• C. James Farmer
• D. Bayard Rustin

Answer: (B)

Malcolm X is recognized for his advocacy of armed self-defense during the Civil Rights Movement. He believed that African Americans had the right to protect themselves against violence and racial oppression, especially in a society that often failed to do so. Malcolm X articulated a philosophy that emphasized the need for self-empowerment and took a more militant stance in contrast to the non-violent approach that was championed by leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.

His views were particularly shaped by the experiences of systemic violence faced by Black communities and the lack of adequate protection from the state. Malcolm X’s insistence on self-defense was rooted in a broader understanding of human rights, asserting that people have the right to defend themselves against aggressors. This perspective gained significant attention during the 1960s, marking him as a distinct figure within the civil rights movement who challenged conventional approaches to achieving racial equality.