Final answer:
Frederick Douglass and Malcolm X would likely acknowledge progress in civil rights and representation by 2020 but also critique the ongoing racial inequality and economic disparities. Despite legislative changes, the U.S. continues to face structural racism and challenges in achieving true equality and a 'composite nation.'
Step-by-step explanation:
Frederick Douglass and Malcolm X were both African American leaders who spoke passionately about the issues of racism, equality, and justice in their respective eras. Douglass, in the 19th century, recognized the potential strength in a diverse nation and fought against discrimination of all marginalized groups. Malcolm X, a prominent figure in the 1960s, advocated for Black empowerment and self-determination, often expressing distrust of White Americans and challenging the effectiveness of the mainstream civil rights movements of his time. Given their stances, if Douglass and Malcolm X were reflecting on being an American in 2020, they would likely see both progress and continued challenges. They would acknowledge strides toward civil rights and representation but would also critique ongoing racial inequality, systemic issues, and the economic disparities that persist despite legal advancements.
Even though the United States has made significant legislative changes, like the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the critique by Douglass and Malcolm X on America's fulfillment of its promise of freedom and equality would still remain relevant in 2020. They would observe that race relations have evolved, but the country still grapples with structural racism and inequities affecting African Americans and other minorities. The fight for a 'composite nation,' as envisioned by Douglass, where everyone has an equal opportunity to prosper, continues to be a work in progress, reflecting their historical dialogues on the complexities of American identity.