In the United States' history, there has been a multitude of political disagreements arriving from many ideological backgrounds. Some of which resulted in violent protests, and others peaceful. Peaceful rejection or counteractions to laws, or issues in the world at the moment, is called civil disobedience. Several prominent leaders have displayed some civil disobedience in their lifetimes. While some received praise for their stances, still others were faced with backlash. It can be argued, however, that civil disobedience benefits a free society. Martin Luther King Jr. may be one of the most recognizable figures of civil disobedience the United States has ever seen. In his Letter from a Birmingham Jail, King addresses criticisms to his actions, as well as the followers he gained throughout the Civil Rights movement. In the letter, King explains the situation, “It is unfortunate that demonstrations …show more content…
A few years ago, there were many instances of unnecessary shootings and killings involving police officers against one group in particular, African Americans. In response, hundreds of people protested in the streets. As can be compared to the infamous march Martin Luther King Jr. took in 1965 from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, officers used what can be called “scare tactics” against those utilizing their right to disobey civilly. Officers were using tear gas to disturb the crowds, military was called in, even wearing gas masks and somewhat armored uniforms, all of which occurred in the 1960’s as well as in the past few years. In many protests where tensions escalate and violence begins to emit, there were talks of Martin Luther King Jr. and how he was able to accomplish so much in his time as the Civil Rights leader without using violence to have his point reached. Even in King’s absence, his legacy of civil disobedience lives