Martin Luther King

Who was Martin Luther King?

Martin Luther King was an African American who became one of the world's most famous civil rights campaigners. In 1964 he won the Nobel Peace Prize.

What did Martin Luther King do before he campaigned for civil rights?

Martin Luther King Junior was born into a middle-class family in 1929. He was a Baptist minister and gained a doctorate at university.

Why did Martin Luther King gain widespread support?

He had 2 main qualities that meant he appealed to everyone:

• ❖ He was well educated, a passionate speaker and continually emphasised his non-violent stance.
• ❖ Most importantly, he was a Baptist minister which meant he had the respect of many people.

Why was Martin Luther King committed to a non-violent approach?

He was influenced by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi who led India's battle for independence using a non-violent approach. He was also a committed Christian, following Jesus's message of non-violence.

What did Martin Luther King want the civil rights movement to achieve?

Initially, Martin Luther King was focused on 2 main areas:

• ❖ Ending segregation in the southern states of America.
• ❖ Increasing voter registration in the south's black communities so they had more political power.

How did Martin Luther King's aims change?

Martin Luther King focus switched to 2 different priorities after 1965:

• ❖ Tackling economic and social inequalities across America to address the issues black Americans faced in terms of jobs, housing and wages.
• ❖ Opposing the Vietnam War which diverted resources from solving social and racial problems at home.

What events in the civil right movement did Martin Luther King organise?

Martin Luther King was involved in many events. The 5 main events included:

• ❖ The creation of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1955.
• ❖ The Montgomery Bus Boycott, 1955.
• ❖ Campaign C in Birmingham, Alabama, 1963.
• ❖ The March on Washington in August 1963.
• ❖ The Selma to Montgomery March in March 1965.

What was important about Martin Luther King?

Martin Luther King is one of the most important figures in 20th century American history due to his tireless campaigning for civil rights. His significance in America has led to many roads and schools being named after him and there is even an annual public holiday in his honour.

How did Martin Luther King die?

Martin Luther King was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee on 4th April, 1968.