Muhammad, Elijah

views updated

Muhammad, Elijah (c.1897–1975) Leader (1934–75) of the Black Muslims, b. Elijah Poole. He became leader following the disappearance of the Black Muslims founder, Wallace D. Fard. During World War II, he was imprisoned for encouraging draft-dodging. The rhetorical skills of Malcolm X gained the movement national attention, and tensions grew until Malcolm was suspended. Under Muhammad's leadership, the Muslim doctrines were codified and membership increased.

More From encyclopedia.com