Martin Luther King Day

Martin Luther King Day, which takes place on the third Monday of January, celebrates the life and achievements of Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 15^th, 1929 – April 4^th, 1968) – an American clergyman, activist and prominent leader in the African-American Civil Rights Movement. King was also the youngest man to be awarded a Nobel Peace Prize.

The first time this holiday was observed in the United States was on January 20^th, 1986.

At Martin Luther King Day, some schools mark the day by teaching their pupils about the work of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the struggle against racial segregation and racism. Americans are also encouraged to give some of their time as volunteers in citizen action groups.

More information about Martin Luther King, Jr. is available at Nobelprize.org.

Learn more about Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life from The King Center website.

Click here and watch “I have a dream” speech – Martin Luther King, Jr.’s most famous address.

International Business Time has a slideshow of Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial around the world.

Check out Brainy Quote to see Martin Luther King, Jr.’s quotes.