Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Biography and the National Book Award, 'The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X' is a monumental chronicle of the American icon by investigative journalist Les Payne and completed by his daughter Tamara Payne. Les Payne embarked on a near three-decade quest, starting in 1990, to compile the definitive account of Malcolm X's life. Through extensive interviews with those who knew Malcolm—including family, friends, adversaries, and government entities—he unravels the narrative thread to offer a vivid portrayal that challenges previous conceptions. From Malcolm's childhood influenced by the crusading spirit of his Garveyite parents to his ascension as a prominent moralist and revolutionist, this masterful biography paints Malcolm X not just as a historical figure, but as a stirring symbol of resistance and an unwavering champion of justice. It elucidates his ongoing relevance by capturing his profound impact on the fight for civil rights, lending insight into clandestine meetings with the KKK and the shadow of government surveillance, all culminating in a detailed, heart-stopping account of his assassination in 1965. This exquisitely researched work enshrines his legacy— a complex leader making his indelible mark both on the civil rights movement and the tapestry of American history.