Martin Luther King Jr. is one of the most iconic figures in history, widely regarded as a leader of the Civil Rights Movement and a symbol of peace and equality. While we all know the basics about him, there are many facts that remain unknown to most people. Here’s a look at six fascinating facts about Martin Luther King Jr. that you may not have heard before!

1. Martin Luther King Jr. Was Young When He Became a Leader –

Not only was he one of the leaders of the Civil Rights Movement, but he was also surprisingly young when he became a leader in his community. At age 25, he became part-time pastor at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. From there, he rose to become one of the most influential figures in American history.

2. His Famous “I Have A Dream” Speech Wasn’t Planned –

The famous “I Have A Dream” speech wasn’t even planned originally! It was improvised and added on during his speech at the Lincoln Memorial on August 28th, 1963. He had written down some notes for what he wanted to say but decided to go off script and add on this famous speech which is now known around the world.

3. He Won The Nobel Peace Prize In 1964 –

At 35 years old in 1964, MLK Jr won the Nobel Peace Prize for being an inspirational leader to millions around the world who were fighting for freedom and civil rights in America and beyond. He was also awarded several honorary degrees from universities around the country including Yale University, Princeton University, Oberlin College and many more!

4. His Birthday Is Now A Federal Holiday –

After President Ronald Reagan signed legislation into law on November 2nd 1983 officially making MLK Jr’s birthday a federal holiday it has been celebrated ever since with parades and other special events like concerts or fundraisers taking place all over America annually each January 15th!

5. He Was Also An Activist For Human Rights Around The World –

MLK Jr was not just an advocate for civil rights in America but human rights globally too! He was strongly against war and violence throughout his life advocating instead for peaceful protests that would bring attention to issues such as poverty or racism without resorting to violence or destruction like some other groups did at times during this era (e..g Black Panthers). This made him very popular among many different nations abroad who saw him as someone who could help their own revolutions as well!

6. He Was Assassinated On April 4th 1968 –

Sadly MLK Jr was assassinated by James Earl Ray on April 4th 1968 while standing on a motel balcony in Memphis Tennessee where he had gone to support striking sanitation workers there earlier that day… This event shocked much of America with people around the world mourning his death which still remains unsolved today despite numerous investigations trying to uncover new clues about what happened that fateful night almost 52 years ago now…

There are so many inspiring facts about Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and legacy that have helped shape our views on race relations today – from his leadership during the Civil Rights Movement to his work advocating non-violent protest tactics which continue to be seen worldwide even today decades after his death! We hope these six facts gave you some insight into why this great man is remembered so fondly by people everywhere no matter their background or beliefs – everyone truly can learn something from MLK’s example!

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