How Did Mlkj Influence The Civil Rights Movement

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MLKJ was one of the most influential leaders during the civil rights movement and almost certainly the most well-known. MLKJ by definition, was a “baptist minister and social activist who led the civil rights movement in the United States,” (Britannica). People knew him as a visionary, a man with a dream, someone who cared about others. He saw injustice and strived to fix it, there was one thing about him however, that separated him from most leaders. He did it peacefully and stood for never stooping to the level of violence. He thought it would make himself and his followers just as bad as the people who discriminated against black people. Many people were confused, how could blacks remain peaceful after recurring atrocities were committed …show more content…

Despite this, he found a way to attract attention to the movement peacefully, but there is one vital piece of information that is often overlooked. During this period there were two different types of protesting, peaceful and violent. This occurred on both sides, not just Pro- Civil Rights. Your viewpoint largely depends on where you live and most often your skin color. Some would argue that the actions of the Civil Rights Movement were forward, overreacting, and violent. If you were Pro-Civil Rights you accused the Anti-Civil Rights of being cruel, inhumane, and actions seen as unjust. Obviously, we now know that the Anti- Civil Rights movement is ridiculous and horrific against black people. He was a large figure and he made outstanding advancements by peaceful protesting. However, the violent side of the protest strengthened his voice. The violent side made people listen. Many wanted revenge for the brutal acts committed against black people. Mass genocide, dogs, water hoses, police intervention or lack thereof, abuse, etc. After enduring for so long, some had questioned how peace could even be an option. “The telephone rang at the NAACP branch office in Montgomery,