How did the Black Panther Party approach social change?

The Black Panther Party is well-remembered for its dual approach to social change, which combined armed self-defense with the establishment of community programs. This dual strategy was rooted in the belief that African Americans had the right to defend themselves against systemic violence and police brutality, particularly in urban neighborhoods. The party's promotion of armed self-defense was significant as it challenged the prevalent narrative of nonviolence in the civil rights movement, asserting that Black individuals could take active measures to protect themselves.

In addition to self-defense, the Black Panther Party initiated various community programs that aimed to address critical social issues, including health care, education, and food access. Programs such as free breakfast for children, health clinics, and educational initiatives were designed to meet immediate community needs and empower residents. This comprehensive approach sought to not only resist oppression but also to build self-sufficient systems that uplifted the community.

Other choices do not encapsulate the multifaceted strategy employed by the Black Panther Party. The emphasis on legal reforms or nonviolent methods, while prevalent in other movements, didn’t reflect the Black Panther Party's identity or tactics, which were defined by their revolutionary stance and community activism. Consequently, the correct answer illustrates the holistic strategy that characterized the party's approach to enacting