Early Life

Martin Luther King Junior was born on January 15, 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia. He was actually born with the name Michael King, but his father changed it. Martin Luther King Jr. live with his father (Martin Luther King Sr.), his mother (Alberta William King), his brother (Alfred Daniel Williams King), and his sister Christine King. He grew up in times of segregation.

Why is he Famous?

Martin Luther King Jr. was famous because he was a social activist who led the civil rights movement in the 1950’s. He led many peaceful protest and gave many speeches to help end segregation.

Major Accomplishments

• Led the Montgomery bus boycott

• Helped organize the march on Washington

• Gave the “I have a dream” speech

• Led the Birmingham campaign that was against segregation laws

Glossary

• Segregation: The practice of separating a race.

• Social activist: Someone fighting for social change.