Martin Luther King Jr. was not born as a Martin; he was a Michael. This is true of his father as well. Both men were born Michael and changed their names after becoming ministers. 

King entered college at the young age of 15. He ultimately earned a doctorate in systematic theology.

In 1964 King received the Nobel Peace Prize for his use of nonviolence to combat racial equality. He became a vocal opponent of the Vietnam War, which would later become an issue with one-time supporters in Washington.

 King’s final speech in Memphis foretold his death, “Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now…I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. Nut I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land. And I’m happy tonight. I’m not worried about anything. I’m not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord. “

 King was only 39 years old when he died. Upon his death, an autopsy was performed which found that King’s heart was comparable to that of sixty year old. This was caused by stress.

 As Americans we observe only two peoples birthdays as national holidays