Marcus Garvey – a Driver of The Biggest Black Movement

Introduction

Marcus Mosiah Garvey Jr. was born on August 17, 1887, in Saint Ann's Bay, Colony of Jamaica. He was a Jamaican political activist, publisher, speaker, entrepreneur, and writer. Garvey was the founder and first President-General of the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League (UNIA-ACL), declaring himself the Provisional President of Africa. In 1916, he moved to the United States, establishing a UNIA branch in New York City’s Harlem district. His ideologies, known as Garveyism, promoted Black nationalism and Pan-Africanism. He passed away on June 10, 1940, after suffering a stroke.

Garvey’s Vision and Leadership

Garvey emphasized unity among Africans and the African diaspora, advocating for an end to European colonial rule and the political unification of Africa. He envisioned a unified African nation governed under a single-party system. Despite never visiting Africa, he was committed to the Back-to-Africa movement, encouraging African Americans to migrate there. His movement gained massive popularity, making UNIA one of the largest Black organizations in history.

Challenges and Opposition

Garvey faced significant opposition from other African American leaders due to his radical views and alliances. His collaboration with white supremacist groups, such as the Ku Klux Klan, to advance mutual interests in racial separatism alienated many Black activists, including W.E.B. DuBois. The NAACP and the Urban League heavily criticized him, with campaigns calling for his removal.

Economic Endeavors

Garvey sought economic empowerment for Black people, founding the Black Star Line to facilitate trade between Africa, the Caribbean, and the United States. Unfortunately, financial mismanagement and accusations of mail fraud led to the company’s downfall. He was convicted in 1922 and sentenced to five years in prison. Following appeals, President Calvin Coolidge commuted his sentence in exchange for deportation to Jamaica.

Legacy and Impact

Despite his legal and financial struggles, Garvey's influence remains significant. His ideas inspired future movements, including the Nation of Islam and the Civil Rights Movement. He established a sense of pride and unity among Black people, proving that collective efforts could lead to societal change. His vision for African empowerment continues to resonate today.

References

• Dunn, R. E. (2004). Marcus Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association.
• Parmett, H. (1992). Black Star: The Life and Times of Marcus Garvey.
• Hill, R. A. (1983). The Marcus Garvey and Universal Negro Improvement Association Papers.