“Learning to Read” by Malcolm X
Malcolm X 's claims about African history were very inspiring to me as a student. Like Malcolm X, I had to self educate myself on the real history of my ancestors. Textbooks are often watered down so that Black peoples' history before slavery is often expunged. Malcolm X's references to philosophy put everything into perspective for me. Learning of the civilizations before European invasion showed how singular black people were in history.
Consequently, I agree with Malcolm X that “when white people had written history books, the black man had simply been left out.” I presume that this was done to disparage the glory of black history and accomplishments. Studying true African history can help shatter the ignorance that many live in throughout the world. Learning about our history gave me a sense of pride. Learning how strong Africans were under the harsh conditions of slavery is an immaculate idea of showing the strength of Africans when faced with tremendous historical challenges.
I feel as though its imperative for people to be exposed to the truth of African history. Simultaneously studying African history leads to the discovery of how other cultures evolved and expanded. African history is a laudable and valuable piece of who Black people are in society and how they should be represented in textbooks. African history is a path to showing superior and crucial achievements in many disciplines throughout history. African history also allows us to understand our current conditions throughout the world. In conclusion, I surmise that Black history should be glorified not expunged.
Janiaya Morille
AP Language and Composition
Mrs. Shoop, teacher
Link to copy of "Learning to Read"
“Learning to Read” by Malcolm X
In the essay "Learning to Read" Malcolm X begins by discussing how he learned how to read and write in prison. He also explicated how learning to read and write broadened his vocabulary and mindset. Malcolm X's epiphany was ignited when he started reading various books about African Americans and their culture. In his autobiography, Malcolm X presented a claim that the black gene is dominant, while the white gene is recessive. I was baffled by this claim because it is hard to believe the black gene as being dominant given the oppression and injustice people have underdone in African history. Other than that reaction, it is understandable for the black gene to be dominant because of the logic that “If you started with a black man, a white man could be produced…” and conversely you will never end up with a black man if you started with a white man. Malcolm X also introduced a claim, but did not fully indulge in it, that before the white imperialist or expansionist set foot in Africa, many great “civilizations were present.” My reaction to this was neutral simply because this is a topic previously learned about in a different course. Malcolm X presents another claim of “black slave women tied up and flogged with whips…” This assertion by Malcolm X made e irate. To think of what African American females or males went through is genuinely flagrant and impermissible.
Coralie Nanfack
AP Language and Composition
Mrs. Shoop, teacher