Moorish Science Temple of America

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The Moorish Science Temple of America is an American national and religious organization founded by Noble Drew Ali (born Timothy Drew) in the early 20th century. He based it on the premise that African Americans are descendants of the Moabites and thus "Moorish" by nationality, and Islamic by faith. Ali put together elements of major traditions to develop a message of personal transformation through historical education, racial pride, and spiritual uplift. His doctrine was also intended to provide African Americans with a sense of identity in the world and promote civic involvement. One primary tenet of the Moorish Science Temple is the belief that African Americans are descended from the "Moroccan Empire". According to Ali, this area included other countries around Northwest Africa. To join the movement, individuals must proclaim their "Moorish nationality". They were given "nationality cards". In religious texts, adherents refer to themselves racially as "Asiatics", as the Middle East...

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