Story #59: Malcom X Visits PBHA’s Project Tanganyika in 1964

In October 1964, Malcolm X visited Project Tanganyika, an initiative at PBHA that marked Harvard's first program sending students abroad. This visit coincided with a pivotal moment in African history, as Tanganyika had gained its independence from the United Kingdom just three years earlier, on December 9, 1961. Today, Tanganyika is part of the United Republic of Tanzania.

Malcolm X, a prominent African American civil rights leader and advocate for Black empowerment, was known for his powerful oratory and commitment to social justice. During his visit to the PBHA volunteers, he expressed admiration for their efforts, noting in his diary that the students were “extremely friendly” and “probably sincere.”

Malcolm X with 1963 cohort of Project Tanganyika volunteer

Photo from 1964.

Project Tanganyika was established during a time of immense hope and transformation in Africa. The program sent its first cohort of 26 students—14 Harvard undergraduates and 6 Radcliffe students—to Tanganyika, making it the largest American delegation to an African country for the summer at that time. The volunteers worked in schools, teaching English and engaging in community aid initiatives. As Peter C. Goldmark ’62, the leader of the inaugural group, wrote, the educational challenges in Tanganyika were “not of quantity, but of quality,” with the nation facing a shortage of trained personnel.

Malcolm X’s insights and encouragement resonated with the volunteers, reinforcing their commitment to social justice and education. His visit underscored the impact of Project Tanganyika, not only on the communities they served but also on the students themselves, many of whom went on to have significant careers in public service and advocacy.

Here is a quote from one of the volunteers in the first cohort:

“I attribute my choice of career largely to my Tanganyikan experience. It awakened me to the necessity of doing something useful and helpful for others with my talents and education…it got me serious, made me realize how poor the world is and how much I owe it, having been privileged to receive a good education.”

As PBHA celebrates its rich history, Malcolm X's visit remains a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of cross-cultural engagement and the vital role of young leaders in shaping a more just and equitable world. To read more about Project Tanganyika, check out this Crimson article here.