Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King History

The Observance of Martin Luther King Jr.Day is an event recognised in honour of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a significant figure in the American civil rights movement. The occasion is marked globally to perpetuate King's values of freedom, respect for human rights, equality, and justice, principles which resonate with individuals across various cultures and countries. It's an opportunity to reflect on these universally recognised values and the strides made to fulfill King's vision of a just society.

King's impact was not confined to the United States - he was an influential figure globally, and his passion for equality and justice resonates with many UK citizens. His philosophy mirrored that of the UK's own civil rights heroes, promoting peaceful resistance during times of social and racial injustice. Notably, King visited the UK in 1964 and delivered a speech to the Oxford University Union, reflecting his international appeal and influence.

In the United Kingdom, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, typically observed on the third Monday of January, is acknowledged in different ways. Several universities such as the University of Newcastle and the University of Manchester host lectures, seminars, and discussion forums focusing on King's vision and its global relevance. Additionally, a statue of King stands amongst other global icons of peace and freedom at St. George's Chapel, in the grounds of Windsor Castle, indicating a visible recognition of his legacy and principles within the UK.

Facts about Martin Luther King Jr.

• Martin Luther King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. He was 35 years old, which made him the youngest Peace Prize winner at the time.
• I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., August 28, 1963.
• He is one of the two Americans whose birthdays are observed as federal holidays, the other one being George Washington.
• Dr. King was appointed honorary president of the British Council for Peace in Vietnam in 1967. His appointment acknowledged his outspoken stance against the Vietnam War and his international work for social justice and nonviolence.
• During his visit to the UK, Martin Luther King Jr. received an honorary degree from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne (now Newcastle University) in 1967. This was the only UK university to honor him in this way during his life.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Martin Luther King Jr.

Top things to do in the UK for Martin Luther King Jr.

• Watch a movie about MLK. Some popular films include: Our Friend Martin (1999), Selma(2014) and The Witness (2008)
• Popular films to watch about Martin Luther King Jr. are:
  King: A Filmed Record... Montgomery to Memphis (1970) - This Oscar-nominated documentary is an in-depth look at the life of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr from the Montgomery bus boycott to his assassination.
  Selma (2014) - This Oscar-winning movie dramatizes the Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches led by Martin Luther King Jr. It's compelling and poignant.
  Martin Luther King: The Assassination Tapes (2012) - This International Emmy Award-winning documentary uncovers the days leading up to MLK's assassination using news footage and reports.
• Popular events that occur on Martin Luther King Jr. in United Kingdom are:
  Martin Luther King Peace Walk: Much like in the U.S., the UK also celebrates Martin Luther King Jr’s legacy by organizing peace walks, which usually involve speeches, prayers, and other activities promoting peace and unity.
  The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Lecture: This annual lecture focuses on human rights, social justice, and anti-racism.
  Martin Luther King Day Celebrations at the American Embassy: The American Embassy in London often holds events in honor of Dr. King. These events feature American speakers and are attended by both Americans living in the UK and British citizens.