mselves. He depended on it for membership in his organization. The part of Malcolm’s life that most clearly demonstrates his separate searches for acceptance were his name changes. From Malcolm Little to Malcolm X signified him finding acceptance as a hustler and crime organizer and also as a leader in the Nation of Islam. Later, after his departure from the Nation of Islam, he changed from Malcolm X to El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz signifying his new acceptance and purpose in his own organization, Muslim Mosque Inc. Similar searches were performed by all African American males in response to the rejection they felt in American society. What made Malcolm X great was a drive for not only acceptance and purpose but also to lead other African-American males that he knew shared his very same need of acceptance and purpose. He gave them their purpose: fighting for equality....
