The civil rights leader famous for emphasizing self-defense in addition to nonviolence was Malcolm X. A prominent figure in the civil rights movement during the 1950s and 1960s, he advocated for African American rights and was known for his assertive stance on self-defense against racial violence. Although he initially embraced a philosophy of black nationalism and separatism, he later emphasized the importance of human rights and broader social reforms. His speeches and writings challenged systemic racism and inspired many, making him a central figure in the fight for equality and justice in America.