Final answer:
Stokely Carmichael transformed SNCC by adopting a Black Power philosophy, shifting the focus from nonviolent protests to African American self-empowerment and restricting membership to African Americans. This reflected a significant ideological shift towards black nationalism during his leadership.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Stokely Carmichael Changed SNCC in 1965
Stokely Carmichael, a pivotal figure within the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), fundamentally altered the organization's direction around 1965. Initially involved in nonviolent protests such as sit-ins, Carmichael's perspective evolved over time, leading him to question the effectiveness of these methods. By the time he was elected to lead SNCC, he had embraced the philosophy of Black Power.
This change reflected the growing frustration of black Southerners who were tired of seeking acceptance from whites. Under Carmichael's leadership, SNCC began to push for African American self-reliance and empowerment. Membership in SNCC was eventually restricted to African Americans, marking a significant organizational and ideological shift. Carmichael advocated for creating black-owned companies and supported black candidates, shifting the focus from integration to building strong, independent black communities and institutions.
The climax of this transition was evident during the March Against Fear in 1966 when Carmichael famously declared his intent to stop begging whites and to start taking what he believed African Americans deserved, represented by the slogan Black Power which was made public. Shortly thereafter, the Black Power Movement gained more prominence, resonating with those disillusioned by the slow pace of change and the obstruction of civil rights by existing power structures.