The Legacy of Dr. Martin L. King, Jr.
January is the birth month of a man who made an impact around the world. We can appreciate the legacy of Dr. Martin L. King, Jr.
By Carrie Jackson
The month of January is significant for many reasons. It begins the first month of the New Year, and it is also the birth month of a man who made an impact around the world. Dr. Martin L. King, Jr. was born on January 15, 1929 into a family of pastors, which included his father and grandfather. He would later follow in the footsteps of his family and become one of the world’s most notable historical figures.
Growing up in the south, Martin L. King, Jr. experienced segregation in public schools and public places, but he was able to overcome society’s ills by focusing on his family’s strong foundation. By the age of fifteen he graduated from high school, and in 1948 he received his bachelor's degree from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. After graduation he continued his studies at Boston University where he earned his doctorate degree in theology. In 1954 he became pastor of a church in Alabama; this is where he began to develop his leadership skills and his desire to fight for civil rights. While serving as pastor, he was involved in a number of civic rights activities. One of the most important events was the Montgomery Boycott. The decision to organize the bus boycott led to his arrest, his house was bombed, and he received death threats, but he was able to accomplish something noteworthy using non-violent protest. His methods for non-violent protests and civil disobedience were based on Gandhi principles. As a result of his fight against injustice he received the Noble Peace Prize and was named Man of the Year by Time magazine in 1963. In addition, Dr. Martin L. King, Jr., was also noted for his writings that infused the beliefs of Christianity, justice, and unity for all mankind.
So, how can you teach students about the legacy of Dr. Martin L. King, Jr.? A great way to start off is by teaching the principles he stood for, focusing on teaching tolerance and civil disobedience. What is interesting is that Martin L. King, Jr was influenced by Gandhi who combined his Hindu and Christian beliefs to fight injustice. Challenge students to think of alternative ways to solve major problems around the world. Reenact some of the strategies such as a sit-in, or stage a silent protest with posters that reflect a message related to an injustice. Listen and examine music that promotes peace. Have students examine how a person can influence many around the world. Students could compare and contrast the lives of King and Gandhi; view the 1984 film Gandhi or a documentary about Martin L. King, Jr. The lessons that follow teach about Dr. Martin L. King, Jr.’s legacy of non-violence, peace, and his contributions to the Civil Rights Movement.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Lesson Plans:
In this lesson students learn about the Cvil Rights movement learning about key individuals and organizations involved during this period in history. Students define the term civil rights, and write reflective essays about the movement.
Students will examine segregated conditions for African Americans in the South during the 1950s and 1960s. Students define the term segregation, identify laws, and historical events. In this lesson students use the Internet to gather information about the Civil Rights Movement and the Little Rock Nine.
American Jews and the Civil Rights Movement
Students explore the involvement of American Jews in the Civil Rights movement. They explore the themes of equality, tolerance and injustice. Students complete an activism project.
In this lesson students read Dr. Martin L. King, Jr., "I Have a Dream" speech. They analyze King’s philosophy and principles regarding peaceful resistance. Students compare and contrast other pieces of text connected to King. This lesson also makes reference to music artists that supported the march.
Let Freedom Ring: The Life & Legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.
This lesson is guided by the following questions: Who was Martin Luther King, Jr., and how did he fight for civil rights? What images and ideas did he draw upon in crafting his "I Have a Dream" speech? And what parts of Dr. King's dream have or have not been realized in the present day? Students will examine Dr. King’s life and focus on the inequalities in the United States during this time.
