Malcolm X's Milestones
Birth
Malcolm X was born Malcolm Little in Omaha, Nebraska, to Earl and Louise Little.
Family targeted by white supremacists
Family home burned and father threatened by white supremacist groups.
Father's death
His father, Earl Little, died in suspicious circumstances, deeply affecting the family.
Mother institutionalized
His mother was committed to a mental institution, and Malcolm was placed in foster care.
Dropped out of school
Dropped out of school after a teacher discouraged his ambition to become a lawyer.
Criminal conviction
Convicted of burglary and sentenced to prison.
Imprisonment
Served a prison sentence, during which he educated himself and converted to the Nation of Islam.
Became Nation of Islam minister
Became a prominent minister and national spokesperson for the Nation of Islam.
Marriage to Betty Shabazz
Married Betty Sanders (Betty Shabazz); they had six children.
Break with Nation of Islam
Broke with the Nation of Islam due to ideological differences.
Founded Muslim Mosque, Inc.
Founded Muslim Mosque, Inc. to pursue a more inclusive approach to civil rights.
Pilgrimage to Mecca
Made the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, which transformed his views on race and unity.
Founded Organization of Afro-American Unity
Founded the Organization of Afro-American Unity to promote Pan-Africanism.
Assassination
Malcolm X was assassinated in New York City.
Autobiography published
'The Autobiography of Malcolm X' was published posthumously.