who was martin luther king jr essay

Martin Luther King Essay for Students and Children

500+ Words Essay on Martin Luter King

Martin Luther King Jr. was an African-American leader in the U.S. He lost his life while performing a peaceful protest for the betterment of blacks in America. His real name was Michael King Jr. He completed his studies and attained a Ph.D. After that, he joined the American Civil Right Movement. He was among one of the great men who dedicated their life for the community.

Reason for Martin Luther King to be famous

There are two reasons for someone to be famous either he is a good man or a very bad person. Martin Luther King was among the good one who dedicated his life to the community. Martin Luther King was also known as MLK Jr. He gained popularity after he became the leader and spokesperson of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s.

Martin Luther King was an American activist, minister, and humanitarian. Also, he had worked for several other causes and actively participated in many protests and boycotts. He was a peaceful man that has faith in Christian beliefs and non-violence. Also, his inspiration for them was the work of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. For his work in the field of civil rights, the Nobel Committee awarded him the Nobel Peace Prize.

He was a great speaker that motivated the blacks to protest using non-violence. Also, he uses peaceful strategies like a boycott, protest march , and sit-ins, etc. for protests against the government.

Impact of King

King is one of the renowned leaders of the African-American who worked for the welfare of his community throughout his life. He was very famous among the community and is the strongest voice of the community. King and his fellow companies and peaceful protesters forced the government several times to bend their laws. Also, kings’ life made a seismic impact on life and thinking of the blacks. He was among one of the great leaders of the era.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Humanitarian and civil rights work

As we know that King was a civic leader . Also, he has taken part in many civil right campaigns and boycotts like the Bus Boycott, Voting Rights and the most famous March on Washington. In this march along with more than 200,000 people, he marched towards Washington for human right. Also, it’s the largest human right campaign in U.S.A. history. During the protest, he gave a speech named “I Have a Dream” which is history’s one of the renowned speeches.

Death and memorial

During his life working as a leader of the Civil Rights Movement he makes many enemies. Also, the government and plans do everything to hurt his reputation. Martin Luther King was assassinated in 1968. Every year the US celebrates his anniversary as Martin Luther King Jr. day in the US. Also, they honored kings’ memory by naming school and building after him and a Memorial at Independence Mall.

Martin Luther King was a great man who dedicated his whole life for his community. Also, he was an active leader and a great spokesperson that not only served his people but also humanity. It was due to his contribution that the African-American got their civil rights.

Essay Topics on Famous Leaders

• Mahatma Gandhi
• APJ Abdul Kalam
• Jawaharlal Nehru
• Swami Vivekananda
• Mother Teresa
• Rabindranath Tagore
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
• Subhash Chandra Bose
• Abraham Lincoln
• Martin Luther King

• Travelling Essay
• Picnic Essay
• Our Country Essay
• My Parents Essay
• Essay on Favourite Personality
• Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
• Essay on Knowledge is Power
• Essay on Gurpurab
• Essay on My Favourite Season
• Essay on Types of Sports

Which class are you in?

Download the App

Home — Essay Samples — Social Issues — Racism — Martin Luther King

Essays on Martin Luther King

Hook examples for martin luther king essays, the dream that changed america hook.

Begin your essay by quoting Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. Explore the impact of this speech on civil rights and its enduring significance in the fight for equality.

The Montgomery Bus Boycott Hook

Introduce the Montgomery Bus Boycott as a pivotal moment in Dr. King's activism. Describe the events leading to the boycott and its role in shaping the civil rights movement.

The Letter from Birmingham Jail Hook

Discuss the powerful "Letter from Birmingham Jail" written by Dr. King during his imprisonment. Examine the letter's arguments for civil disobedience and its impact on the struggle for justice.

The March on Washington Hook

Highlight the significance of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963. Describe the event, its participants, and Dr. King's historic "I Have a Dream" speech delivered at the Lincoln Memorial.

The Nonviolent Resistance Hook

Explore Martin Luther King Jr.'s philosophy of nonviolent resistance and its influence on the civil rights movement. Discuss the strategies and principles behind nonviolent protest.

The Legacy of Dr. King Hook

Reflect on Dr. King's lasting legacy and his impact on civil rights, social justice, and the quest for equality. Discuss how his work continues to inspire change today.

The Assassination and Mourning Hook

Examine the tragic assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968 and the national mourning that followed. Discuss the immediate aftermath and the long-term effects on the civil rights movement.

The Global Influence Hook

Discuss how Martin Luther King Jr.'s message of equality and justice resonated beyond the United States, inspiring movements for civil rights and social change around the world.

The Continuing Struggle Hook

Connect Dr. King's work to ongoing struggles for racial and social justice. Explore how contemporary movements draw inspiration from his teachings and activism.

The Man Behind the Legend Hook

Offer a glimpse into Martin Luther King Jr.'s personal life, upbringing, and motivations. Explore the man behind the iconic figure and shed light on his character and values.

Martin Luther King Jr.: a Legacy of Civil Rights and Social Justice

Martin luther king jr: impact on society, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

Martin Luther King Jr: Influential Figure in The Civil Rights Movement

Different examples of "freedom is never given it must be demanded" in books, analysis of martin luther king's "i have a dream" speech, martin luther king's purpose in his speech beyond vietnam: a time to break silence, let us write you an essay from scratch.

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

The Life and Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

The impact of martin luther king on american civil rights, the use of rhetorical devices in i have a dream speech by dr. martin luther king jr., impact of martin luther king jr's speech, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

Work to Spark The Reformation: Martin Luther King's Opposition to The Church Authority

The stand of martin luther king, malcolm x, and rosa parks against racial inequality and racism in american history, struggle of martin luther king jr. and aneeka pasha, martin luther king jr.: leadership characteristics and legacy, how martin luther king jr's influence shaped american people, the effects of the speech by martin luther king after his death, a personal analysis of i have a dream, a speech by martin luther king jr, the role of martin luther king jr. and malcolm x in civil rights movement, letter from birmingham jail: the rhetorical analysis, analysis of martin luther king jr. as a great leader, 20th-century freedom movements, racism in i have a dream, martin luther king jr.: was everything in vain, analysis of pathos, ethos, and logos in the letter from birmingham jail, martin luther king jr.: life and legacy of a civil rights icon, "i have a dream" by martin luther king, comparison of king’s letter from birmingham jail and lincoln's inaugural address, rhetorical devices, pathos, ethos and logos in 'i have a dream' speech, martin luther king and naacp vs malcom x in the civil rights movement, analysis of rhetorical strategies used by martin luther king in the letter from birmingham jail.

January 10, 1957 – April 4, 1968

Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent leader in the American civil rights movement during the mid-20th century. He dedicated his life to advocating for racial equality and social justice through nonviolent means. King played a crucial role in the advancement of civil rights for African Americans, challenging segregation and discrimination prevalent in American society. King's activism extended beyond racial issues. He spoke out against the Vietnam War, advocating for peace and justice on a global scale. His commitment to nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience inspired millions and earned him international recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.

The American Civil Rights Movement, the Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, and the March on Washington

One of King's most notable contributions was his leadership in the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955, sparked by Rosa Parks' refusal to give up her bus seat to a white person. The boycott led to a landmark Supreme Court ruling against racial segregation in public transportation. King also organized and participated in numerous peaceful protests, including the famous March on Washington in 1963, where he delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, calling for racial harmony and equality. King's leadership played a pivotal role in the passage of important legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which aimed to dismantle segregation and protect the voting rights of African Americans. His peaceful protests and demonstrations brought attention to the systemic racism and discrimination that plagued American society. Beyond his immediate impact, King's message of equality and justice resonated globally. His philosophy of nonviolence influenced civil rights movements around the world and inspired individuals and communities to stand up against oppression. His emphasis on peaceful resistance demonstrated the power of love, compassion, and unity in the face of hatred and injustice. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy extends far beyond his lifetime. His teachings continue to shape social movements, promote equality, and challenge systemic racism.

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." "Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase."

Martin Luther King Jr.'s representation and role in media and literature have been significant, with numerous works dedicated to capturing his life, activism, and impact on society. Through various mediums, his story has been shared to inspire and educate generations. In literature, one notable example is the autobiography "The Autobiography of Martin Luther King, Jr." edited by Clayborne Carson. It provides an intimate account of King's life, struggles, and achievements, allowing readers to delve into his personal experiences and motivations. In the realm of media, the film "Selma" directed by Ava DuVernay depicts the historic 1965 voting rights marches from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, led by Martin Luther King Jr. The movie portrays King's leadership and determination in the face of adversity, highlighting the significance of his efforts in the civil rights movement.

Martin Luther King Jr. is an important figure to write an essay about due to his profound influence on the civil rights movement in the United States and his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and nonviolent activism. His leadership and tireless efforts were instrumental in advancing the cause of racial equality and challenging systemic racism. By exploring King's life and work in an essay, one can delve into the complexities of his strategies, the impact of his speeches and writings, and the enduring legacy he left behind. King's philosophy of nonviolent resistance and his emphasis on love, peace, and unity continue to inspire and resonate with people around the world. Moreover, examining King's accomplishments within the historical and social context of his time allows for a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by African Americans and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. His contributions to the advancement of human rights and social justice make him a significant figure worth studying and celebrating. Through an essay on Martin Luther King Jr., his remarkable achievements and the lessons he imparted can be explored and shared, contributing to a broader understanding of the quest for equality and social change.

1. King Jr, M. L. (1992). Letter from Birmingham jail. UC Davis L. Rev., 26, 835. (https://heinonline.org/HOL/LandingPage?handle=hein.journals/davlr26&div=31&id=&page=) 2. Selby, G. S. (2008). Martin Luther King and the rhetoric of freedom: the Exodus narrative in America's struggle for civil rights. Baylor University Press. (https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/170/book/4075) 3. Wills*, J. S. (2005). ‘Some people even died’: Martin Luther King, Jr, the civil rights movement and the politics of remembrance in elementary classrooms. International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education, 18(1), 109-131. (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09518390412331318397) 4. Kirk, J. A. (2004). Martin Luther King, Jr. Journal of American Studies, 38(2), 329-347. (https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-american-studies/article/martin-luther-king-jr/21D5ABE466B6A9BEA01FD61D8671FE5E) 5. Smith, E., & Wilmore, G. S. (1983). The Ethics of Martin Luther King, Jr. (https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/004057368304000218) 6. Nygren, T., & Johnsrud, B. (2018). What would Martin Luther King Jr. say? Teaching the historical and practical past to promote human rights in education. Journal of Human Rights Practice, 10(2), 287-306. (https://academic.oup.com/jhrp/article-abstract/10/2/287/5042965) 7. Fairclough, A. (1983, April). Was Martin Luther King a Marxist?. In History Workshop (pp. 117-125). Editorial Collective, History Workshop, Ruskin College. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/4288462) 8. Berry, M. F. (1996). Vindicating Martin Luther King, Jr.: The road to a color-blind society. The Journal of Negro History, 81(1-4), 137-144. (https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/abs/10.1086/JNHv81n1-4p137?journalCode=jnh)

Relevant topics

• I Have a Dream
• Black Lives Matter
• Animal Testing
• Pro Choice (Abortion)
• Discrimination
• Women's Rights
• Pro Life (Abortion)
• Gun Control

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Bibliography

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free