Marcus Mosiah Garvey Jr. was a Jamaican-American civil rights activist, journalist, entrepreneur, and orator who advocated for Pan-Africanism and black nationalism. Born on August 17, 1887, in St. Ann\'s Bay, Jamaica, Garvey was a pivotal figure in the struggle for African-American rights and independence.
*Early Life and Education*
Garvey was the youngest of 11 children born to Marcus Mosiah Garvey Sr. and Sarah Jane Richards. He attended elementary school in Jamaica and later moved to Kingston, where he worked as a printer\'s apprentice. In 1910, he traveled to Central America, working as a journalist and laborer.
*Civil Rights Activism*
Garvey\'s activism began in Jamaica, advocating for workers\' rights and equality. In 1914, he founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA), aiming to unite African people globally. He moved to the United States in 1916, establishing UNIA\'s headquarters in Harlem.
*Key Achievements*
1. *Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA)*: Founded in 1914, UNIA became a global organization promoting African unity, self-reliance, and empowerment.
2. *The Negro World*: Garvey\'s newspaper, launched in 1918, disseminated Pan-Africanist ideas and news.
3. *Black Star Line*: Garvey\'s shipping company, established in 1919, aimed to promote African-American trade and commerce.
4. *Pan-African Congress*: Garvey attended the 1921 Congress in Paris, advocating for African independence.
*Philosophy and Legacy*
Garvey\'s philosophy emphasized:
1. *Pan-Africanism*: Unity among African people worldwide.
2. *Black Nationalism*: Self-determination and empowerment for African-Americans.
3. *Racial Pride*: Celebrating African heritage and culture.
Garvey\'s legacy inspires:
1. *Civil Rights Movement*: Influencing leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
2. *Rastafarianism*: Garvey\'s ideas shaped the Rastafarian movement.
3. *African Independence*: Garvey\'s advocacy contributed to African nations\' struggle for independence.
*Challenges and Controversies*
Garvey faced:
1. *Racism and opposition*: From white supremacists and some African-American leaders.
2. *Financial struggles*: UNIA and Black Star Line faced financial difficulties.
3. *Conviction and imprisonment*: Garvey was convicted of mail fraud in 1923 and imprisoned for two years.
*Later Life and Death*
Garvey died on June 10, 1940, in London, England. His body was returned to Jamaica in 1964, where he was reburied as a national hero.
*Quotes*
1. \"Up, you mighty race! Accomplish what you will.\"
2. \"Africa for the Africans, at home and abroad.\"
3. \"A people without knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.\"
Marcus Garvey\'s pioneering work continues to inspire generations of African descendants worldwide.
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