Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent American civil rights leader and an iconic figure in the fight for racial equality and social justice. Born on January 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia, he became a Baptist minister and emerged as the face of the American civil rights movement during the 1950s and 1960s. King was known for his commitment to nonviolent protest and his unwavering dedication to achieving civil rights for African Americans. He played a pivotal role in organizing and leading numerous peaceful protests, including the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, where he delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. His efforts led to significant advances in civil rights legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Tragically, Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee, but his legacy endures as a symbol of hope, justice, and the pursuit of equality for all. His impact on the course of American history continues to inspire and influence movements for social change around the world.