Published in 1965 "Learning to Read' is an excerpt from the autobiography of Malcolm X. 1965 marks a period in American history that is tainted with widespread abuse of African Americans at the hands of White oppression. The target audience for this piece is predominately African American. Malcolm X's purpose in composing this essay is to empower the African American population with the ability and desire to rise up against white authority. The author suggests that self-education is the true road to self-empowerment and ultimately revolution. Malcolm X's ability to persuade his audience stems from his proficient utilization of rhetorical strategy to appeal to his audience. Malcolm effectively uses ethos to establish his credibility, pathos to invoke the desire to achieve empowerment, and logos to convince his audience to attain that achievement through self-education.
             Malcolm gains the audience's trust by displaying credibility, character, and confidence. "In the street, I had been the most articulate hustler out there- I had commanded attention when I said something. But now, trying to write simple English, I not only wasn't articulate, I wasn't functional" (243). By sharing with his audience that he was illiterate at one time, Malcolm portrays himself as human as well as comfortable with himself. Aside from projecting confidence, another way Malcolm effectively convinces his audience of his legitimacy is by displaying his dedication and good judgment. While serving a prison sentence, Malcolm decided to copy an entire dictionary. His ability to complete an extremely odious yet optional task is evidence for his audience that he is a man of integrity. Malcolm's display of broad self-understanding and acceptance is advantageous in building a relationship of respect with his readers. "You couldn't have gotten me out of books with a wedge... months passed witho...