Martin Luther King Jr.: Civil Rights Hero

A Leader Who Changed America Grade 6 History

Early Life and Childhood

Born January 15, 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia Real name was Michael King Jr. Father was a Baptist minister Experienced segregation as a young boy Very smart student who loved to read

What Was Segregation?

Laws that separated black and white people Separate schools, restaurants, and bathrooms Black facilities were often poor quality Called 'Jim Crow' laws Made life unfair for African Americans

Dr. King's Famous Dream

'I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: that all men are created equal.'

The Montgomery Bus Boycott

Started when Rosa Parks was arrested African Americans refused to ride buses Lasted 381 days (over a year!) Dr. King led the peaceful protest Buses finally became integrated

Timeline: Dr. King's Life and Achievements

Peaceful Protest Activity

Think of a problem in your school or community Design a peaceful way to solve it Remember: No violence, just words and actions Share your ideas with a partner

Dr. King's Methods vs. Violence

{"left":"Peaceful marches and speeches\nPrayer and church gatherings\nBoycotts (not buying things)\nTeaching and education","right":"Violence and fighting\nAngry protests\nHurting people\nBreaking things"}

Discussion Time

How do you think Dr. King felt when people were mean to him? Why do you think he chose to be peaceful instead of fighting back? What can we learn from Dr. King's example?

Dr. King's Legacy Today

We celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day every January His dream of equality continues People of all colors can be friends We still work to treat everyone fairly His peaceful methods inspire people worldwide