January 15, 1929:
A Beacon of Hope is Born: On this day, Martin Luther King Jr. comes into the world in Atlanta, Georgia. Little did anyone know that this child would grow up to become a symbol of hope and a catalyst for change. (Source: Biography.com)
December 1, 1955:
A Quiet Act of Defiance: Rosa Parks refuses to give up her bus seat to a white passenger, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Join Martin Luther King Jr. as he emerges as a leader in this nonviolent protest, demanding equal treatment for all. (Source: History.com)
September 12, 1962:
Dr. King presents speech at the New York Civil War Centennial Commission’s Emancipation Proclamation Observance, New York City
“If our nation had done nothing more in its whole history than to create just two documents, its contribution to civilization would be imperishable. The first of these documents is the Declaration of Independence and the other is that which we are here to honor tonight, the Emancipation Proclamation. All tyrants, past, present and future, are powerless to bury the truths in these declarations, no matter how extensive their legions, how vast their power and how malignant their evil.” (Source: nps.gov)
August 28, 1963:
“I Have a Dream”: Standing in the heart of the nation’s capital, Martin Luther King Jr. delivers his legendary speech during the March on Washington. Experience the power of his words as he envisions a future where racial equality is a reality.
Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends.
So even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.
(Source: The King Center)
October 14, 1964:
A Voice for Peace: Martin Luther King Jr. is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his tireless efforts in the Civil Rights Movement. Step into the shoes of this inspiring figure who dedicated his life to promoting justice and harmony. (Source: Nobel Prize)
March 7, 1965:
The Bloody Sunday: Walk alongside Martin Luther King Jr. and thousands of peaceful protesters as they march from Selma to Montgomery, demanding equal voting rights. Witness the violent clashes that shook the nation and ignited change. (Source: History.com)
April 4, 1968:
A Nation in Mourning: Tragedy strikes as Martin Luther King Jr. is assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. Explore the profound impact of his death on the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing struggle for equality. (Source: National Civil Rights Museum)
January 20, 1986:
Honoring a Hero: Martin Luther King Jr. Day is officially observed as a federal holiday in the United States, recognizing his remarkable contributions. Join the nation in commemorating his legacy and reflecting on the continued fight for justice. (Source: History.com)
August 22, 2011:
A Monumental Tribute: The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is unveiled in Washington, D.C., paying homage to his life’s work. Stand in awe of this towering symbol of freedom and equality, reminding us of the ongoing pursuit of justice. (Source: National Park Service)
January 16, 2012:
A Dream Realized: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park is inaugurated in Atlanta, Georgia, honoring the birthplace and legacy of this remarkable leader. Discover the significance of this sacred space and the lessons it imparts. (Source: National Park Service)