This report will highlight the life and accomplishments of Martin Luther King, Jr.
King was a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement from 1955 to 1968.
Leadership Style:.
King travelled to India to study to study non-violent resistent tactics with Mahatma Gahndi. It would become platform under which he would lead his own efforts in the civil rights movement. While some divisions believed his position played into the hands of the oppressor, it is believed to be the cornerstone of his success in the movement.
MLK was aware of the violence in American race relations and the injustice of segregation in his culture. He refused to surrender to the system, but chose not to retaliate with hatred or viciousness. He rose above his oppressors by showing love for all while maintaining his own personal integrity and demonstrating that integrity as an example for his followers. .
His message was based on acceptance for all, so nobody was excluded. white college students were important in helping spread the message, putting their own lives on the front lines of marches, and thereby winning over other white folks. If he had made the issue purely race-based, thousands would have been excluded and the overall movement would have likely been less effective.
History of the Leader:.
Martin Luther King, Jr. was born Atlanta Georgia on January 15, 1929. He entered Moorehouse College in 1944 at age 15. From there he went to Crozer Thoelogical Seminary and Boston University. King recieved his Ph.D in systematic theology in 1955.
King was elected President of the Montgomery Improvement Association in 1955. From there he founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957. Both organizations sought to end segregation and discrimination. In 1962, King delivered the now legendary "I Had a Dream" speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Shortly thereafter he was named Man of the Year and in 1962, King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
