Born: 1/15/1929 Atlanta, Georgia

Died: 4/4/1968 Memphis, Tennessee

King was a pivotal figure in the non-violent civil rights movement. During the 1950s and 1960s, he sought to improve race relations and overturn discrimination in American society. He is remembered for his powerful speeches which sought to bring about a united society - where race did not act as a barrier.

Awards / Achievements:

• Congressional Gold Medal (2004, posthumous)
• Nobel Peace Prize (1964)
• Presidential Medal of Freedom (1977, posthumous)