Letter from Birmingham Jail

Looking back through American history, one of the greatest influential leaders to date is Martin Luther King Jr. He is most recognized for advancing African-American civil rights through nonviolent resistance. In 1963, he wrote an open letter from a cell in Birmingham Jail defending this practice of nonviolent action which was later widely published. It was originally addressed to eight white clergymen but it also became an inspiration as a call to action for the nation. Throughout “Letter from Birmingham Jail”, King explains that people have the responsibility to break laws that are unjust. He stresses that they must take action instead of waiting, potentially for a long time, for the court to pull through and give them their equal rights. King creates pathos and tells of the innocent children being put through the injustices. In one instance, he describes having to explain to his daughter why she can’t go to the public amusement park that had just been advertised on television because it is closed to colored children. This anecdote evokes a sense of sadness in the audience that helps reason why the laws are unjust and why people must try to make a difference. After addressing being considered an extremist, King uses anaphora when listing other extremists throughout history. Some include, “Was not Jesus an extremist in love?... Was not Amos an extremist for justice... Was not Paul an extremist for the gospel of Jesus Christ...”. This strategy of repetition made the point he was making clear; some of the greatest figures in the world are extremists. He adds that, “maybe the South, the nation, and the world are in dire need of creative extremists”. As the letter comes to a close it is clear that King’s shared ideas are well-supported and are important. His words are heard and have brought great change to the world.

“Skies of Civil Rights” Dark clouds and deep fog of prejudice being lifted for the stars of love and brotherhood to shine over our great nation. (apod.nasa.com)