Monday, May 4, 2009

"I Have a Dream" Speech by Martin Luther King, Jr. (August 28th, 1963)



This is one of the most famous speeches of the 20th century. As you listen to the speech, you might reflect on some of the following questions. Can you see why many describe King as charismatic? Which lines make the biggest impact on you as you listen today? Also, did you know that Mr. Clark (who works in the Middle School) was there as a young man? You may want to ask him what he remembers about the speech when you see him.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

What was the percentage of white people at this speech?


William Finch

Anonymous said...

This was a very emotional speech. It changed the course of history as we know it. It is why we are united today.

William Finch

Anonymous said...

was MLK JR protected by any security during the speech?

Bobby A.

Anonymous said...

this speech by MLK was a real turning point in the Civil Rights Movement and i think that his words were simply amazing.

Houston H.
Per. 1

Mr. Brown said...

WF,
Of the estimated 250,000 in attendance that day, I have come across estimates that 20-25% of the attendees were white.

Mr. Brown said...

BA,
Your question is a difficult one for me. I looked all over wtihout much luck and really am left mainly with the photographic evidence of the speech. Clearly there are policemen and state troopers present in the crowd behind and around King. As far as I can tell from reading, others around King were serving as "unarmed" bodyguards.

Anonymous said...

The speech was given in the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington.

Anonymous said...

If MLK hadn't done what he did what do you think life would be like today?
AMM3