[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992, Book I)]
[February 10, 1992]
[Page 220]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on the Death of Alex Haley

February 10, 1992
    Barbara and I extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family of Alex 
Haley upon his passing. Alex Haley was an extraordinary individual and a 
literary giant who served his country for 20 years in the U.S. Coast 
Guard.
    He went on to produce many works, including the ``Autobiography of 
Malcolm X'' and ``Roots.'' ``Roots'' in particular has been woven into 
the cultural patchwork that is America. Haley's own roots, nourished in 
the small town values of Henning, Tennessee, were central to his 
writings and his life. He taught us that every community needs to 
strengthen and renew itself. I am particularly grateful for the 
encouragement that he continued to provide to thousands of Americans who 
work to make their communities places where education is nourished. Alex 
Haley understood that it was important to know where you come from--so 
that you could set a course for where you want to go. He will be an 
inspiration for generations to come. His talent and spirit will be 
greatly missed.