Final answer:
Malcolm X's statement "by any means necessary" meant that he believed in using whatever methods were necessary to achieve freedom, justice, and equality for African Americans, including self-defense and violence if necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
Malcolm X famously said, "by any means necessary," which meant that he believed in using whatever methods were necessary to achieve freedom, justice, and equality for African Americans. This statement expressed his willingness to use any means, including self-defense and violence if necessary, to combat the oppression and discrimination faced by Black people. It reflected his rejection of the nonviolent approach of other civil rights activists and his advocacy for self-determination and independence for Black people.