Martin Luther King Jr.'s Influence On Black Culture
There’s no denying that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a profound influence on black culture. Although his life was sadly cut short, decade’s later America still celebrates him every year and his teachings live on through the lesson plans now built into our educational systems. However, black culture as we see it today was built on the ideals, perspectives, and minds of a multitude of different leaders. Take for instance, James Brown, the founding father of funk and one of the greatest civil rights activists Marcom X. While music and activism is on two very different sides of the spectrum, both of these individuals have contributed immensely to the history and values of black culture. Regardless of whether it’s dancing across a stage or assertively
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For example, Malcom X and James Brown both came from broken homes as well as struggled with poverty and dropping out of school. Consequently they each entered and spent years in the legal system at relatively young ages. On a positive note, the time they spent incarcerated allowed them to each find their passions and developed their knowledge and talents. Upon their respective releases they each quickly rose to the top and gained recognition for their unique talents. However, James Brown used his early life experiences to bring music with positive and empowering messages to African Americans. For instance, he wrote hits, which included “Don’t Be a Dropout” and “Say It Loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud”. Songs such as those were able to influence black culture, giving it anthems of pride and educational importance. On the other hand, Malcom X’s early experiences left him seeking retribution for the racial injustices inflicted upon the African American community at that time. During this time it’s hard to argue that Malcom X wasn’t justified on his stance regarding an eye for and eye punishment as a response to racism. However, his message of violence and aggression contradicted that of Dr. King and created somewhat of a divide within his community rather that bringing it together like James Brown did with his
For example, Malcom X and James Brown both came from broken homes as well as struggled with poverty and dropping out of school. Consequently they each entered and spent years in the legal system at relatively young ages. On a positive note, the time they spent incarcerated allowed them to each find their passions and developed their knowledge and talents. Upon their respective releases they each quickly rose to the top and gained recognition for their unique talents. However, James Brown used his early life experiences to bring music with positive and empowering messages to African Americans. For instance, he wrote hits, which included “Don’t Be a Dropout” and “Say It Loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud”. Songs such as those were able to influence black culture, giving it anthems of pride and educational importance. On the other hand, Malcom X’s early experiences left him seeking retribution for the racial injustices inflicted upon the African American community at that time. During this time it’s hard to argue that Malcom X wasn’t justified on his stance regarding an eye for and eye punishment as a response to racism. However, his message of violence and aggression contradicted that of Dr. King and created somewhat of a divide within his community rather that bringing it together like James Brown did with his