From Holt Street to Vietnam

Essay # 65653

African-American Studies > 1950-Present
African-American Studies > Civil Rights
African-American Studies > Historical Figures

An exploration of the broadening of Martin Luther King Junior's rhetorical scope between 1955 and 1967.

1,550 words () | 3 sources | MLA | 2006 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper examines three speeches by Martin Luther King Junior over a twelve year period. The author uses these speeches as a window into understanding the philosophy and morality of Dr. King. From a local bus boycott, to national civil rights such as voting and education, to international human rights issues in Vietnam, MLK consistently broadened his rhetoric and moral vision.

From the Paper:

"An examination of Martin Luther King, Junior's public discourse in the time period between his 1955 speech at Holt Street Baptist Church and his 1967 "Beyond Vietnam" speech reveals the persistent growth of King's scope of compassion, as well as the development of his notions of justice and morality. From our current historical standpoint we are able to witness King transformed from a little-known Baptist minister to a man commonly considered one of the most virtuous American historical figures."