On 21 February 1965, the founder of the Organization for Afro American Unity (OAAU), El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, commonly known as Malcolm X, was tragically murdered in Harlem, New York. This iconic figure in the American civil rights movement dedicated his life to fighting for the rights and empowerment of African Americans.

Malcolm X was born on May 19, 1925, in Omaha, Nebraska. He became a prominent leader within the Nation of Islam, a religious and political organization that advocated for black self-determination and separation from white society. However, in 1964, Malcolm X left the Nation of Islam due to ideological differences and established the OAAU.

The OAAU aimed to unite African Americans and promote their economic, social, and political interests. Malcolm X believed in self-defense, self-determination, and the importance of economic independence for black communities. He emphasized the need for African Americans to come together and form a united front to combat racial discrimination and inequality.

Malcolm X's speeches and activism challenged the status quo and inspired many to question the systemic racism deeply rooted in American society. His powerful words resonated with millions of individuals, both within and outside the African American community, who sought justice and equality.

Unfortunately, Malcolm X's call for unity and liberation threatened powerful individuals and organizations who opposed racial equality. On February 21, 1965, as he was preparing to address a rally at the Audubon Ballroom in Harlem, Malcolm X was assassinated. This shocking event shook the civil rights movement to its core and left a void that has been felt ever since.

While Malcolm X's life was tragically cut short, his legacy lives on. His teachings and ideas continue to inspire generations of activists and leaders who strive for social justice. The OAAU, although short-lived, played a crucial role in the black liberation movement and left a lasting impact on the fight against racial discrimination.

In conclusion, Malcolm X, the founder of the Organization for Afro American Unity, was murdered in Harlem on 21 February 1965. His commitment to African American rights and his untimely death serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of unity in the face of adversity.

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