Martin Luther King, Jr. - Political and Social Views

Martin Luther King, Jr., made history, but he was also transformed by his deep family roots in the African-American Baptist church, his formative experiences in his hometown of Atlanta, his theological studies, his varied models of religious and political leadership, and his extensive network of contacts in the peace and social justice movements of his time. Although King was only 39 at the time of his death, his life was remarkable for the ways it reflected and inspired so many of the twentieth century’s major intellectual, cultural, and political developments.

King is interviewed on a WEVD-New York radio program, “The Psychology Behind Anti-Integration.” 

On the steps of the state capitol in Montgomery, King addresses the Prayer Pilgrimage protesting the electrocution of Jeremiah Reeves.

Later that day, King appears on “Open End,” a television talk show, with segregationist editor James J. Kilpatrick.

At the home of George G. Smith, King discusses race relations and civil rights with other Morehouse College alumni.

Stride Toward Freedom is published in England by Victor Gollancz, Ltd.

At the Mason Temple in Memphis, King addresses a freedom rally on behalf of several black candidates for local office.

President Eisenhower discusses race discrimination with King and other black civil rights leaders at the White House. Following the meeting, the group answers questions from the press.