Louis Farrakhan

Guide Note

Louis Farrakhan is the current leader of the Nation of Islam and representative of Elijah Muhammad. A highly controversial figure, Farrakhan has been widely criticized for comments that have been viewed as antisemitic, racist, and homophobic. Farrakhan has adamantly rejected these charges. He argues that his opponents have worked to create a negative, and he contends false, image of him through manipulation of the media. Since experencing serious health problems in 2006, Farrakhan has largely stayed out of the public eye, making few public appearances or statements. However, he recently endorsed Barack Obama in the 2008 Presidential Election. Barack Obama quickly rejected this endorsement.

Fast Facts

1. Born: May 11, 1933
2. Given name: Louis Eugene Walcott
3. Birthplace: The Bronx, New York
4. Current Residence: Chicago, Illinois
5. Sang in the 1950s as "The Charmer"
6. Joined the Nation of Islam in July 1955
7. Organized a million man march in 1995