Wallace D. Fard Muhammad was the founder of the Nation of Islam, a religious movement that emerged in the United States during the early 20th century. He is believed to have been born in 1877, although details about his early life remain unclear. Fard introduced teachings that combined elements of Islam with African American identity and empowerment. Fard Muhammad is often recognized for his role in promoting self-sufficiency and social justice within the African American community. He taught that African Americans were the original people and emphasized the importance of education and economic independence. His influence led to the rise of prominent figures like Elijah Muhammad and Malcolm X.