Nation of Islam, an African- American religious movement, was founded by Wallace Fard Muhammad in Detroit, Michigan in 1930. Its purpose was to elevate the economic and social status of the black minority while preserving their unique religious identity. The historical roots of Nation of Islam go back to Black Nationalism and its struggle for an indigenous national identity. The repercussions of World War I, combined with the Great Depression provoked discontent amongst black Africans. African slaves brought to America were socially and economically deprived and were forced to accept Christianity (Nelson). Black Nationalism emerged during the 19th century with the aim of abolishing white supremacy and forming separate institutions that fought for the rights of black people. Marcus Garvey, Henry Turner and Martin Delany were some of the influential figures supporting African-American separatist ideology throughout the 19th century. This essay explores Nation of Islam in terms of its historical roots, structure, participant, doctrines, mobilization tactics, and significance as a religious `separatist movement.
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