When Black Panther hit theaters in 2018, it was lauded not only for its powerful representation and compelling story but also for its complex and thought-provoking antagonist, Erik Killmonger. Played by Michael B. Jordan, Killmonger wasn't just another villain bent on world domination. He was a character with a powerful vision—one that struck a chord with many viewers. Killmonger sought to upend the systems of oppression that have kept marginalized people down for centuries, and he believed Wakanda had the power to lead that revolution. But were his methods justified? And could his radical approach to power and social justice have been the right path for Wakanda? Let's take a closer look at Killmonger's ideals and the larger conversations they inspire.
Killmonger's Vision: A Revolutionary Perspective
Killmonger, born N'Jadaka, grew up far from Wakanda, in the tough streets of Oakland, California. Unlike T'Challa, who was raised in the comfort and prosperity of Wakanda, Killmonger experienced the harsh realities of systemic oppression firsthand. He saw Black communities struggling with poverty, violence, and discrimination—all while knowing that Wakanda, a technologically advanced African nation, remained hidden, unwilling to use its resources to help the oppressed. This stark contrast fueled Killmonger's anger and shaped his radical vision: to take Wakanda's power and use it to liberate marginalized people across the world.
His approach was clear: seize the throne of Wakanda, distribute its advanced technology to oppressed communities, and spark a global revolution. Killmonger saw Wakanda not just as a hidden kingdom but as a key to global Black empowerment. His mission was to transform Wakanda from an isolated nation into a beacon of resistance—a force that could dismantle the systems of colonialism and white supremacy that had oppressed Black people for generations.
"The world’s gonna start over, and this time we’re on top," Killmonger declares. His words encapsulate his belief in the necessity of a radical shift in power dynamics—one that would see those who have been oppressed take control of their own destinies.
Wakanda's Isolationism: A Flawed Ideal?
To understand Killmonger's motivations, it's essential to look at Wakanda's policies under T'Chaka and initially under T'Challa. For centuries, Wakanda had remained isolated, choosing to protect itself by hiding its true power from the world. Wakanda was a nation untouched by colonialism, with resources and technology that far surpassed anything the rest of the world had seen. While this strategy kept Wakanda safe, it also meant turning a blind eye to the suffering of millions of Black people around the world.
Killmonger's argument was that Wakanda had a moral responsibility to help those who shared their heritage but not their privilege. He viewed Wakanda's isolationism as selfish, a betrayal of the very people who needed their help the most. In Killmonger's eyes, Wakanda's choice to remain hidden was a failure of leadership and a missed opportunity to right historical wrongs.
His desire to use Wakandan technology to arm oppressed communities was driven by the belief that real change could only come through force. For Killmonger, peaceful diplomacy was not an option—the only way to achieve justice was through a complete upheaval of the existing power structures. This perspective, while radical, forces us to ask difficult questions: Should those with the power to effect change have a responsibility to do so? And if peaceful means have failed, is violence justified in the pursuit of justice?
Radical Methods: Were They Justified?
Killmonger's methods were undeniably extreme. He was willing to kill, to overthrow, and to conquer in order to achieve his vision. His plan to distribute vibranium weapons to arm marginalized groups around the world was a direct challenge to the systems of power that had oppressed Black people for centuries. In his eyes, this was not only justified but necessary. Killmonger believed that only through strength and aggression could the oppressed take control of their own destinies.
But while his motivations were rooted in a desire for justice, his approach mirrored the very tactics of those he sought to overthrow. Killmonger's vision was built on conquest and domination—a cycle of violence that would only perpetuate the same kind of oppression he wanted to end. His approach lacked the compassion and nuance needed to create lasting change. Instead of building bridges, he sought to burn them, which ultimately made him more of a conqueror than a liberator.
This is where Killmonger's vision becomes both compelling and deeply flawed. He forces us to confront the uncomfortable reality that peaceful change is often slow and fraught with setbacks. For those who have suffered for generations, the idea of waiting for gradual progress can feel like a bitter pill to swallow.
Killmonger's rage is understandable, and his call for immediate action resonates with those who have been left behind by the promises of incremental change. However, his methods raise the question of whether true justice can ever be achieved through violence and domination.
The Ideological Clash: Killmonger vs. T'Challa
The conflict between Killmonger and T'Challa is more than a battle for the throne—it's a clash of ideologies. T'Challa, who grew up in Wakanda, believes in protecting his people by maintaining the status quo. He is cautious, wary of exposing Wakanda to the dangers of the outside world. Killmonger, on the other hand, sees Wakanda's isolation as a betrayal. He wants to use Wakanda's power to help those who have been left behind, even if it means putting Wakanda at risk.
T'Challa's journey throughout Black Panther is one of growth and transformation. Killmonger's challenge forces him to reconsider Wakanda's role in the world. By the end of the film, T'Challa has come to understand that Wakanda can no longer afford to remain isolated. He decides to open Wakanda to the world, sharing its knowledge and resources to help uplift marginalized communities. This decision is a direct response to Killmonger's criticisms, showing that while Killmonger's methods were flawed, his message had merit.
The ideological clash between Killmonger and T'Challa is what makes Black Panther such a powerful film. It presents two valid perspectives on how to achieve justice: one rooted in compassion and diplomacy, the other in anger and revolution. Both characters want to see a better world for Black people, but they have fundamentally different ideas of how to get there. This nuanced portrayal of hero and villain blurs the lines between right and wrong, forcing the audience to grapple with the complexities of power, privilege, and responsibility.
Killmonger's Legacy: Sparking Conversations About Justice
Killmonger's impact extends beyond the events of Black Panther. His character has sparked important conversations about revolution, social justice, and the responsibilities of those in power. His vision for Wakanda challenged the idea that those who have the ability to help should remain passive. He forced T'Challa—and the audience—to confront the uncomfortable truth that privilege often comes at the expense of others and that true justice requires action.
Killmonger's legacy is a reminder that the fight for justice is complex and multifaceted. While his methods were extreme, his motivations were rooted in a genuine desire to uplift those who had been left behind. He represented the anger and frustration of those who have been systematically oppressed, and his challenge to Wakanda's leadership ultimately led to positive change. T'Challa's decision to open Wakanda to the world was, in many ways, Killmonger's victory as well—a recognition that his call for action could not be ignored.
In the end, Killmonger was both a villain and a tragic figure—someone who had the potential to be a hero but was consumed by his anger and pain. His vision was one of empowerment, but his inability to see beyond violence ultimately led to his downfall. However, his message lived on, pushing Wakanda toward a future where it could be a force for good in the world.
Conclusion: Was Killmonger Right?
So, was Killmonger right? The answer is both yes and no. He was right in his criticism of Wakanda's isolation and in his belief that those with power have a responsibility to help the oppressed. He was right to challenge the status quo and to demand that Wakanda do more for the global Black community. But his methods—rooted in violence and domination—were ultimately flawed. True justice cannot be achieved through the same cycles of oppression and violence that have caused so much suffering.
Killmonger remains one of the most compelling villains in the MCU because he wasn't entirely wrong—he was a product of his environment, driven by pain and a desire for justice. His legacy is a powerful reminder of the complexities of revolution and the importance of using power responsibly. Through Killmonger's vision, Black Panther challenges us to think deeply about what it means to fight for justice and how we can create a better world for everyone.
FAQs About Killmonger and His Ideals in Black Panther
Who is Killmonger in Black Panther?
Killmonger, played by Michael B. Jordan, is the primary antagonist in Black Panther. He is the cousin of T'Challa and aims to take over Wakanda to use its resources for global Black liberation.
What motivates Killmonger's actions in Black Panther?
Killmonger is motivated by a desire to avenge his father's death and to use Wakanda's advanced technology to empower oppressed Black communities around the world.
Is Killmonger entirely wrong in his ideology?
Killmonger's ideology is rooted in legitimate grievances regarding oppression and systemic inequality, making his motivations understandable even if his methods are extreme.
How does Killmonger's background influence his views?
Killmonger grew up in Oakland, California, experiencing systemic injustice, poverty, and loss, which fueled his anger towards Wakanda's isolationist policies and his desire for global change.
Why does Killmonger want to take over Wakanda?
Killmonger wants to take over Wakanda to use its technology and resources to arm oppressed people around the world, aiming to overthrow systems of oppression.
How does Killmonger challenge T'Challa's views?
Killmonger challenges T'Challa's isolationist stance, arguing that Wakanda has a responsibility to use its power to help oppressed people globally, leading T'Challa to rethink Wakanda's role in the world.
Are Killmonger's methods justified?
While Killmonger's goals of fighting oppression are valid, his methods—rooted in violence and conquest—are extreme and ultimately mirror the systems of oppression he wishes to dismantle.
What impact does Killmonger have on Wakanda's future?
Killmonger's challenge leads T'Challa to open Wakanda to the world and establish outreach programs, indicating that his influence ultimately drove positive change in Wakanda's policies.
What does Killmonger represent in the film?
Killmonger represents the pain, anger, and sense of injustice experienced by the African diaspora, as well as the desire for retribution and change.
How does Killmonger view Wakanda's isolation?
Killmonger views Wakanda's isolation as selfish, believing that Wakanda should use its resources to liberate oppressed people worldwide rather than hiding away.
What makes Killmonger a compelling antagonist?
Killmonger's complex motivations, his legitimate grievances, and Michael B. Jordan's powerful performance make him a compelling antagonist who resonates with audiences.
How does Killmonger's relationship with his father influence him?
Killmonger's father, N'Jobu, was killed by T'Challa's father for betraying Wakanda, leaving Erik with a deep sense of abandonment and resentment towards Wakanda.
What is the significance of Killmonger's final words?
Killmonger's final words about preferring death to bondage highlight the generational trauma of slavery and his unwillingness to be subjugated, even in death.
Does Killmonger succeed in changing Wakanda?
While Killmonger's direct plan fails, his influence leads T'Challa to change Wakanda's policies, opening up the nation to the world and sharing its resources to help others.
What larger conversations does Killmonger's character spark?
Killmonger sparks conversations about systemic injustice, the responsibility of the privileged to help the oppressed, and the complexities of revolution versus reform.
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