Final answer:
In the mid-1960s, Malcolm X, after a pilgrimage to Mecca, adopted a more inclusive view of race relations and founded the Organization of African-American Unity. He advocated for racial justice through 'Ballots or bullets' before being assassinated by the Nation of Islam in 1965. His legacy continued to influence the Black Power movement and civil rights strategies.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the mid-1960s, after a dramatic change in values, Malcolm X left the Nation of Islam. This departure came after he took a pilgrimage to Mecca, which led to a significant shift in his perspective regarding race relations. He started to believe in the possibility of brotherhood between all races and saw orthodox Islam as advocating for racial equality.
Upon returning to the United States, he advocated for racial justice, expressing that it could be achieved through “Ballots or bullets.” He founded the Organization of African-American Unity, aiming for freedom, justice, and equality using any necessary means.
Malcolm X's new stance attracted many young African Americans and laid the intellectual groundwork for the Black Power movement. His more inclusive view, however, also resulted in tension with the Nation of Islam. Tragically, his life ended abruptly when he was assassinated by members of the Nation of Islam on February 21, 1965.
Despite his death, Malcolm X's messages and work had a profound impact. They contributed to the rise of the Black Power movement and continued to influence civil rights strategies and philosophies, emphasizing the importance of self-determination and economic equality for African Americans.