Differences and Similarities of Malcolm X's and MLK's Use of Character in Their Speeches

Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. are notable African American individuals in history. They both stood up for what they believed in but in different ways. Malcolm X's and MLK's use of character within their speeches displayed differences and similarities. The use of character was different in that Malcolm X was a Muslim and believed in Muslim principles. Malcolm X spoke to African Americans with a sense of urgency. He believed that white people were the enemies and to dismiss them and arm themselves for war. He believed in fighting back physically. His most famous line, "By any means necessary." Whatever had to be done to get freedom and fair treatment he was all for it whether it be violence or nonviolence. MLK's peaceful protests helped him rise to national fame. MLK followed the Christian faith. Although he may have been physically attacked he never reacted with violence. MLK wanted all the races to come together and for hatred and violence to be put to a halt. He felt that justice could be done through nonviolent protesting, passive resistance, and what he called "weapons of love." 

Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. expressed their views through assertive, hard-hitting, powerful speeches. Both men passionately expressed their views on race and equality. Both men had a vision and exhibited the true qualities of a leader. They stood up for something that few people of their race did at this time. Both men used their religious background in attempt to create protests and demonstrations for the advancement of African Americans.They preached and fought for the rights of African Americans during the 1960s. They were the voice of their people, and although they took different approaches, the end result being freedom, was kept in sight by both men. They are remembered as men who tried to instill strength and power to their people so that they could overcome all the hatred that surrounded them.