Assassination of MLK

Definition

The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent leader in the Civil Rights Movement, occurred on April 4th, 1968 in Memphis Tennessee. His death led to widespread riots across U.S cities and marked a significant turning point in American history.

Analogy

Imagine if your favorite band's lead singer suddenly left or passed away - it would be shocking and devastating. That's how many felt when MLK was assassinated - he was leading America towards equality with his nonviolent approach to civil rights activism.

Related terms

Civil Rights Act (1964): A landmark piece of legislation in United States that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

James Earl Ray: Convicted murderer who pleaded guilty to assassinating Martin Luther King Jr., though later recanted his confession.

Riots following MLK’s assassination (1968): Widespread civil unrest and riots that occurred in over 100 cities across the U.S following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.