Who was Martin Luther King Jr.?

Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent civil rights leader who played a crucial role in advocating for equal rights for African Americans during the 1950s and 1960s. He is best known for his commitment to nonviolent protest as a means of achieving social change, a philosophy heavily influenced by Mahatma Gandhi's teachings. King emphasized the importance of peaceful demonstrations, such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, where he delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. His leadership and vision were pivotal in advancing the Civil Rights Movement, leading to significant legislative changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. This answer captures the essence of King's contributions and the values he stood for.