Welcome .
Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Explore the information below to learn about his life, his leadership, and the legacy he left through peaceful activism and service.
Martin Luther King Jr
Martin Luther King Jr. (born Michael King Jr., January 15, 1929 – April 4,
1968) was an American Baptist minister and activist leader in the civil rights
movement. He is best known for his role in the advancement of civil rights using
the tactics of nonviolence and based on his Christian beliefs.
Dr. King believed strongly in nonviolence, meaning peaceful protest instead of
violence. His ideas were inspired by his Christian faith and by leaders like
Mahatma Gandhi. Through speeches, marches, and peaceful action, he helped
change unfair laws and encouraged people to treat one another with respect and
equality.
I Have a Dream Speech
Dr. King delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech on August 28, 1963, during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. More than 250,000 people gathered to peacefully demand equal rights for all Americans.
“And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still
have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a
dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of
its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created
equal.”
Optional Activities
• Write an essay explaining Dr. King’s vision, key achievements, and how his
work changed America, including important dates and events. Cite your
sources.
• Create a timeline showing his early life, major civil rights events, and lasting
legacy, using any format you choose.
• Research how Dr. King helped create change and why the Civil Rights
Movement was needed.
Resources
1. National Geographic Kids: Martin Luther King Jr.
2. Ducksters: Martin Luther King Jr.
3. Wikipedia: Martin Luther King Jr.
4. The King Center (Official MLK Organization)
Facts About MLK Jr
• Born in Atlanta, Georgia
• Became a pastor and community leader
• Helped organize peaceful marches and protests
• Believed change could happen through love and courage
• Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964
• Remembered as a symbol of justice, equality, and hope
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