The Titans of Civilization: The People Who Shaped the World - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Martin Luther King Sr.

Martin Luther King Sr., born Michael King Sr. (1899 — 1984), was an influential African-American Baptist minister, civil rights leader, and the father of the iconic civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He played a significant role in shaping his son's values and commitment to social justice. Here are the key facts about Martin Luther King Sr.:

Early Life and Education:
- Martin Luther King Sr. was born on December 19, 1899, in Stockbridge, Georgia.
- He attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, where he studied theology and was deeply influenced by the principles of nonviolence and social justice.

Pastoral Work:
- After completing his education, King Sr. became a Baptist minister. He served as a pastor at several churches, including the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia.
- He was known for his eloquent preaching and commitment to uplifting the African-American community.

Marriage and Family:
- In 1926, King Sr. married Alberta Williams, and they had three children: Christine, Martin Luther King Jr., and Alfred Daniel Williams King.
- King Sr. was a loving father who instilled in his children a sense of moral responsibility, education, and the importance of fighting for equality.

Social Activism:
- King Sr. was an early advocate for civil rights and worked to address racial inequality and segregation.
- He led efforts to register African-American voters and co-founded the Atlanta chapter of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People).

Influence on Martin Luther King Jr.:
- King Sr.'s commitment to civil rights and social justice had a profound impact on his son, Martin Luther King Jr.
- He taught his son the principles of nonviolent resistance, moral courage, and the importance of faith in the struggle for equality.

Death of His Wife and Son:
- In 1974, Alberta King was tragically shot and killed while playing the organ at Ebenezer Baptist Church.
- In 1968, King Sr. experienced another tragic loss when his son, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.

Later Years and Legacy:
- King Sr. continued his pastoral and civil rights work, advocating for justice and equality.
- He was known for his efforts to promote education and encourage African-Americans to pursue higher education and professional careers.

Name Change:
- In honor of the Protestant reformer Martin Luther, King Sr. changed his name from Michael King to Martin Luther King Sr. when his son, Martin Luther King Jr., was five years old.

Passing Away:
- Martin Luther King Sr. passed away on November 11, 1984, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 84.

Martin Luther King Sr.'s commitment to civil rights, social justice, and nonviolence had a lasting impact on his family and the broader African-American community. His influence on his son, Martin Luther King Jr., played a pivotal role in shaping the younger King's leadership and advocacy for racial equality and justice.