The summer of 1963 saw the Negro Revolt move into full view; it also saw the Black Muslims reach an almost incredible peak of public concern and notice. The intent of this work is to provide information and insight as companions to that concern. For correct information is the ultimate weapon of freedom. Even so, there are unpleasant and chilling things in this book. The Black Muslims—for some—are an unpleasant and chilling people, but freedom includes the right to be chilling, and the Black Muslims have no monopoly on unpleasantness.
In reality, Western man is on trial in this book. Without the failings of Western society, the Black Muslims could not have come into being; without the continued failings of our society, the Black Muslims cannot endure. Here, then, Western white man, is a bitter pill. Do with it as you see fit.
Louis E. Lomax
St. Albans, New York
July, 1963
