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Martin Luther King, Sr.
Martin Luther King Sr, c1977-81.jpg
Born
Michael King

(1899-12-19)December 19, 1899
Died November 11, 1984(1984-11-11) (aged 84)
Occupation Baptist minister
Spouse(s) Alberta Williams King 1926–1974 (her death)
Children Martin Luther King, Jr. (deceased)
Christine King Farris
Alfred Daniel Williams King (deceased)
Parent(s) James King
(1863-1933)
Delia Linsey King
(1875-1924)
Signature
Martin Luther King, Sr. Signature.svg

The Reverend Martin Luther King, Sr. (born Michael King; December 19, 1899 – November 11, 1984) was an important African American civil rights activist. He was also a Baptist minister. He is widely known as the father of Martin Luther King, Jr., a famous leader who fought against racial segregation.

Martin Luther King, Sr.

Growing Up

Martin Luther King, Sr. was born Michael King on December 19, 1899. His birthplace was Stockbridge, Georgia, in the U.S.. He grew up in a time when many African Americans faced unfair treatment.

A Leader in the Church

Michael King became a Baptist minister. He was a strong voice for his community. In 1934, he changed his name to Martin Luther King, Sr. This was in honor of the German Protestant reformer, Martin Luther. He led the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. He served as its pastor for many years.

King, Sr. was a leader in the civil rights movement. This movement worked for equal rights for all people. He fought against racial segregation, which meant keeping people of different races apart. He believed in peaceful ways to bring about change. He helped organize protests and marches.

Family and Legacy

Martin Luther King, Sr. married Alberta Williams King in 1926. They had three children together. Their most famous child was Martin Luther King, Jr.. He became a very important civil rights leader.

King, Sr. taught his children about faith and justice. He inspired them to fight for what was right. His wife, Alberta, was sadly killed in 1974. Martin Luther King, Sr. continued his work for justice. He passed away on November 11, 1984, at the age of 84. His legacy lives on through his family and the changes he helped create.

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