What did Martin Luther King Jr. do?

Martin Luther King Jr. is widely recognized for his role as a leader in the American civil rights movement, particularly for advocating for racial equality and social justice through nonviolent protest. His philosophy was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings on nonviolence, and he promoted civil disobedience as a means to challenge and change unjust laws and practices. King organized and led numerous peaceful demonstrations, including the March on Washington in 1963, where he delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech, calling for an end to racism and advocating for civil and economic rights.

This approach was pivotal in garnering national attention to the struggles faced by African Americans and ultimately played a significant role in the passage of crucial legislation, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. His commitment to nonviolent protest helped to inspire a generation and laid the groundwork for future movements advocating for justice and equality.