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I. Martin Luther King, Jr. accomplished great things from an early age, never finishing his freshman or senior year of high school. A. He never formally graduated due to such outstanding scores on college entry exams; he was able to advance to college early. 1. He was elected as President of his Senior class in college and also earned the Pearl Plafkner Award for most outstanding student. 2. He earned his Bachelor degree in 1951 and his Ph. D. in 1955. B. Dr. King entered the Christian ministry becoming ordained in 1948. . He went on to become the pastor of Dexter Avenue for five years. 2. After resigning from Dexter, he was the co-pastor with his father for eight years until his untimely death. II. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a prominent figure of the modern era. A. He gave lectures that stirred and sparked concern for every generation. 1. His marches brought significant changes to the American life through his courage and devotion. 2. His leadership inspired everyone in the nation and around the world. B. Dr.
King had a concept of “somebodiness,” symbolizing celebration of self worth giving everyone a sense of dignity. 1. His philosophy was a nonviolent direct action, his strategies for rational social change, galvanized the principles of the nation. 2. The wisdom that Dr. King had was like a new way of life for the American people. III. Martin Luther King, Jr. was an essential figure throughout the Civil Rights Movement. A. During the Civil Rights Movement he was responsible for the success of the Montgomery Bus Boycott from 1955-1956. . He was arrested thirty times for his participation in the Civil Rights Movement. 2. He received abundant awards for his leadership during the movement. B. Before his untimely death, Dr. King authored six books and various articles relating to his leadership, travels, speaking, and peace and justice. 1. April 4, 1968, Dr. King was in Memphis leading workers in a protest against low wages and intolerable work conditions, when he was shot. 2. In 1999, James Earl Ray was sentenced for the murder of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.