Originally, Martin was not his first name, it was actually Michael — his father, Martin Luther King Sr.’s, name was also originally Michael but after a trip to Germany, he

One of the facts about Martin Luther King Jr. that most people are unaware of: His birth certificate reads Michael King, an ode to his father, a former pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. But when Rev. Michael King took a church trip to Germany ...

Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic 1963 "I Have a Dream" speech is well known, but there are several other key speeches that also resonate as historical signposts of the Civil Rights Movement.

Martin Luther King Jr was born in the United States of America to African American parents. At birth he was named Michael King, but his father later changed his name to Martin Luther King Jr. When Martin Luther King was growing up, life was hard for ...

Learn about this special holiday with our guide to MLK Day, including how to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s teachings today and all year round.

January 19, 2026 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day. King’s actual birthday was on January 15. April 8, 1968 – Rep. John Conyers (D-MI) introduces legislation for a federal holiday to commemorate King, just four days after his assassination. January 15 ...

• Martin Luther King Jr. was an important leader and activist in the civil rights movement. • He was born Michael King Jr. on Jan. 15, 1929 in Atlanta.