Maulana Karenga American activist, author and professor of Africana studies Date of Birth: 14.07.1941 Country: USA

1. Biography of Maulana Karenga
2. Early Life and Education
3. Activism and the Black Power Movement
4. Creation of Kwanzaa
5. Later Career and Scholarship
6. Ka-Wyda Principles and Secular Humanism
7. Recognition and Legacy

Biography of Maulana Karenga

Maulana Karenga, born Ronald McKinley Everett, is an American activist, author, and professor of African studies.

Early Life and Education

Born in Parsonsburg, Maryland, Karenga was the 14th child and seventh son in his family. He moved to Los Angeles in 1959 and joined the Los Angeles City College, where he became involved in civil rights organizations. He later attended the University of California, Los Angeles, earning a BA and MA in political science.

Activism and the Black Power Movement

In the 1960s, Karenga was an active participant in the Black Power movement. He co-founded the black nationalist group the Organization US in 1965, which later engaged in violent clashes with the Black Panther Party. In 1971, he was convicted of assault, torture, and false imprisonment of women. He denied involvement and claimed the charges were politically motivated.

Creation of Kwanzaa

In 1966, Karenga created Kwanzaa, a pan-African and Afro-American holiday inspired by African traditions. The holiday's rituals promote African values, including the "Seven Principles of African Heritage."

Later Career and Scholarship

After his parole in 1975, Karenga re-established the Organization US. He earned a PhD in political science in 1976 and a PhD in social ethics in 1994. He became the Chair of the Department of African Studies at California State University, Long Beach, and has authored several books, including "Introduction to Black Studies."

Ka-Wyda Principles and Secular Humanism

In the 1970s, Karenga formulated the Ka-Wyda principles, calling for African Americans to embrace secular humanism and reject other practices as mythical. He also advocated for a return to African cultural values.

Recognition and Legacy

In 2002, scholar Molefi Kete Asante included Karenga in his list of 100 Greatest African Americans. Karenga's work on African studies, activism, and Kwanzaa has made him a significant figure in the African American community and beyond.