Martin Luther King, Jr.: Great Leader and Communicator

The world has seen many charismatic leaders, but Martin Luther King has also inspired and affected change that benefits millions today. Dr. Martin Luther King is remembered by those who met him or seen him speak that he was, among other things a great communicator. This generation is fortunate enough that there are videos of him that is available. His most famous speech, “I have a dream,” turns 50 this year, and it is not only the enduring message of this speech that is being honored, but Dr. King’s valiant efforts at changing the world for the better.

Dr. King’s gift of expression

Dr. King possesses the gift of expressing his loftiest aspirations in a manner that every single one of his followers, no matter what their backgrounds could relate to. “I have a dream” was the speech he delivered on August 28, 1963 that roused more not just the throng that stood listening to him half a century ago, but succeeding generations. His vision for his children was for them to live in a country where they would be judged by their character and not their skin color. He convinced everyone this was the dream to aspire to. In “I have a dream” Dr. King did not focus as much on historical references or the issues of the day. Perhaps he knew they needed no reminding. Instead he encouraged and inspired people to work for this dream.

Dr. King was known to be an effusive writer who used long sentences. But “I have a dream,” he used shorter sentences and words of common usage knowing that the audience would come from a variety of educational backgrounds. He supplemented the brevity of his sentences with pauses at the right moments and gestures for emphasis. He appealed simultaneously to the listeners’ morality, reason, and emotion and this strategy worked for him.

Style of leadership

Dr. King showed courage in addressing controversial issues such as race, inequality and poverty despite lack of support from a huge party. He represented a movement with many thousands involved, but he managed to stand out as a singular person. His effectiveness as a leader was tied very closely to his amazing communications skills. When he delivered “I have a dream,” he knew how to use pitch and timing to put the most essential points across. He knew his strengths and played upon them. He also knew his people well and struck at the right chords that would propel them to action.

“National Action to Realize the Dream”

Martin Luther King, Jr.’s landmark speech was remembered and honored on August 24, 2013 as people from around the world gathered together for the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s “I have a dream.” The National Mall in Washington DC served as the venue for this commemorative march. The march was led by King III and Al Sharpton of MSNBC. Dr. King’s 55 year-old son spoke to the throng of human rights activists and supporters declaring that “the task is not done, the journey is not complete.”

Photo Credit: Dr. Martin Luther King speaking at the Washington Temple Church freedom rally in 1962