What does Malcolm X mean by the phrase "In 1964, it's the ballot or the bullet"? *

"In 1964, it's the ballot or the bullet" is a phrase from a speech given by Malcolm X, a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement. Here's a step-by-step explanation of what he meant:

1. The Context: The year 1964 was a significant time in the United States. The Civil Rights Act was passed, which outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. However, despite this legal victory, many African Americans were still facing severe discrimination, particularly in the South where voting rights were often suppressed.

2. The Ballot: The "ballot" in this phrase refers to the act of voting. Malcolm X was emphasizing the importance of African Americans exercising their right to vote as a means to effect change and fight against racial discrimination. He was urging African Americans to use their voting power to elect officials who would work towards equality and civil rights.

3. The Bullet: The "bullet" in this phrase is a metaphor for violence or revolution. If the peaceful means of change (i.e., voting) were not effective or possible, Malcolm X was suggesting that more drastic measures might be necessary. This was a more radical stance than other civil rights leaders of the time, like Martin Luther King Jr., who advocated for nonviolent protest.

4. The Overall Meaning: By saying "In 1964, it's the ballot or the bullet," Malcolm X was essentially giving a call to action. He was saying that African Americans needed to take control of their own destiny, either through political means (the ballot) or through more forceful means (the bullet) if necessary. It was a powerful statement about the urgency and importance of the fight for civil rights.