Martin Luther King Jr. (1929–1968) was one of the most important leaders in the American civil rights movement and a global symbol of nonviolent social change. Here’s a clear overview of who he was and why he matters:
Biography & Key Facts
- Born: January 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Died: April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee
- Occupation: Baptist minister, activist, leader of the civil rights movement
- Education: Morehouse College (BA), Crozer Theological Seminary (BD), Boston University (PhD in systematic theology)
Major Achievements
- Leader of the Civil Rights Movement (1950s–1960s)
- Advocated for racial equality and desegregation in the U.S.
- Emphasized nonviolent protest inspired by Mahatma Gandhi.
- Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955–1956)
- Sparked by Rosa Parks’ arrest for refusing to give up her seat.
- Led to a Supreme Court ruling that segregation on public buses was unconstitutional.
- March on Washington & “I Have a Dream” (1963)
- Delivered his famous speech advocating for a future where people are judged by character, not skin color.
- Helped push forward the Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Act.
- Nobel Peace Prize (1964)
- Recognized for his work to end racial inequality through nonviolence.
- Other Notable Campaigns
- Birmingham Campaign (1963) — exposed segregation and police brutality.
- Selma to Montgomery marches (1965) — highlighted voting rights issues.
Legacy
- Inspired civil rights reforms in the U.S. and worldwide.
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a U.S. federal holiday celebrated every third Monday in January.
- Known for his philosophy of peaceful protest, justice, and equality.
- His speeches and writings continue to influence movements for social justice today.
Famous Quotes
- “I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted…”
- “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
- “The time is always right to do what is right.”
If you want, I can also give you a timeline of MLK’s life with all his major events and speeches, or a summary of his key philosophies and writings.
Do you want me to do that?
