Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
About Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
- Biography
- Fast Facts
- Quotes
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) is one of the most recognized and respected figures in modern history. A Baptist minister, scholar, and the defining voice of the American civil rights movement, he led the Montgomery bus boycott, helped found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and championed nonviolent resistance as a force for change. His "I Have a Dream" speech at the 1963 March on Washington is among the most celebrated speeches ever delivered. At 35, he became the youngest person at that time to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.
More than fifty years after his death, Dr. King's words, image, and ideals continue to resonate across generations and borders. His message of justice, equality, courage, and hope is honored every year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a U.S. federal holiday, and his legacy inspires education, publishing, film, music, art, and commemorative programs around the world. Partnerships with his estate offer the opportunity to connect with that legacy responsibly and meaningfully.
Nobel Peace Prize: Awarded in 1964 at age 35, making him the youngest recipient at that time.
Montgomery Bus Boycott: Lasted 381 days (1955-56) and ended with a Supreme Court ruling against bus segregation.
SCLC: Co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957 and served as its first president.
March on Washington: August 28, 1963, about 250,000 participants
Key legislation: His work helped build momentum for the Civil Rights Act (1964) and Voting Rights Act (1965).
Selma Marches: 1965, a pivotal push for voting rights.
Holiday: MLK Day became a federal holiday in 1983 and was first observed in 1986, on the third Monday of January
Memorial: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial on the National Mall, dedicated 2011
"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."
"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that."
"Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
"The time is always right to do what is right."
"I have a dream."
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