What was Malcolm X's view on African American identity?

Malcolm X's view on African American identity emphasized the significance of embracing African heritage as a means of empowerment and self-identity. He believed that understanding and taking pride in one's African roots was crucial for African Americans, who faced systemic oppression and historical disconnection from their ancestry. This focus on heritage was part of his larger philosophy of black pride and self-determination, promoting the idea that African Americans should reject the assimilationist mindset that sought to erase their cultural and historical identity. By advocating for an embrace of African heritage, Malcolm X aimed to instill a sense of unity and strength within the African American community, encouraging individuals to recognize their worth and struggle against oppression with confidence in their cultural identity.