Chapter 7: Chickens Coming Home to Roost (1964-65) Summary and Analysis

Malcolm X often warned about racial war; segregation could not survive without violent struggle. Blacks would not remain passive, X told whites. He believed that God was going to judge white America. However, his religious affiliations were about to change as he broke with Elijah Muhammad.

We have already seen the Malcolm X was completely obedient to Muhammad from 1948 through 1963. Muhammad's word was gospel, and Muhammad rewarded Malcolm for his service with leeway to speak as he wished and wealth for his family. The two were close. However, a schism occurred. Muhammad and his people argued that Malcolm's ninety-day silencing and separation was due to his disobedience; Muhammad had commanded his ministers not to comment on the tragedy. When Muhammad let Malcolm speak in his place two weeks afterward...