Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Martin Luther King Jr. born?
He was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where his family was active in the church and community.
What did he study in school?
He studied theology and earned a doctorate in systematic theology from Boston University after attending Morehouse College.
How did Martin Luther King Jr. die?
He was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee, when he was shot while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel.
How old was he when he died?
He was 39 years old when he was killed in 1968.
Did he receive any major awards?
Yes. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for his work promoting nonviolent social change.
What organization did he help lead?
He was a founder and leader of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), which coordinated civil rights activities.
Who influenced his ideas about peaceful change?
He was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s nonviolent methods and by his Christian faith and moral teachings.
Did he write any important books or letters?
Yes. Notable works include “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” the memoir “Stride Toward Freedom,” and other essays and speeches.
What is Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
It’s a U.S. federal holiday observed on the third Monday in January to honor his birthday and legacy, often marked by service and education.
How can people honor his legacy today?
People honor him by volunteering, learning about civil rights history, speaking up for fairness, and using peaceful actions to improve their communities.
