Guided Primary Source Analysis: Martin Luther King, Jr. – Why We Can’t . . .

Martin Luther King, Jr., three-quarter-length portrait, standing, facing front, at a press conference
Albertin, Walter, “Martin Luther King, Jr., three-quarter-length portrait, standing, facing front, at a press conference.” 1964 June 8. New York World-Telegram and the Sun Newspaper Photograph Collection (Library of Congress).

The last word in the sign next to Martin Luther King, Jr. is mostly covered by a microphone. List the word that you think is on the sign and why you think that.

The words on the sign were the title of a book King published the year before the photograph was taken. Investigate the sources linked to below and write a summary of what you learned. Than answer the question, What do you think King might have been talking about at this press conference?

For what contemporary issue could you use this slogan? Name the issue, explain why the slogan is appropriate for it, and draft a brief outline or bulleted list of speaking points you would make at a press conference about the issue.

What other observations, reflections or questions does this source inspire? Let us know!

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