To understand the ethos of "The Ballot or the Bullet" one must first have an understanding of the extrinsic ethos of the controversial Malcolm X. Malcolm X was a spokesman for the Nation of Islam, a radical religious group that promoted Black Nationalism.Black Nationalism advocates race pride and encourages African Americans to be independent and sufficient of white society. Malcolm X was a controversial figure because he encouraged blacks to take back the rights they deserve through nay means necessary, even if it required violence. He gained plenty of attention and was even criticized by MLK, who once said he felt "Malcolm has done himself and our people a great disservice".
Malcolm establishes intrinsic ethos in his speech "The Ballot or the Bullet" by going in to great detail describing the racial issues in America and what action should be taken to resolve these issues. Intrinsic ethos is established immediately just with the title which Malcolm later explains to be a call for change through either peaceful political means or through violence if ultimately necessary. He shows conviction and passion by emphatically arguing for better rights and pointing out the various injustices faced by African Americans.
It's important as a member of the audience to understand both the intrinsic ethos established within the text as well as the extrinsic ethos of Malcolm X.
-Chris Burns
I really like how you broke down the fundamental qualities of Malcolm X. Grasping the knowledge that you have given would help immensely to someone reading the two speeches with no background. Understanding Malcolm's ethos also aids in the understanding of why he says what he does in his speech.
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