The event in 1968 that marked a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States was the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. His death on April 4, 1968, sent shockwaves through the nation and ignited widespread protests, riots, and expressions of grief. King was a central figure in advocating for nonviolent civil disobedience and racial equality. His assassination not only highlighted the ongoing challenges of racism and inequality in America but also solidified his legacy as a martyr for the civil rights cause, inspiring future generations to continue the struggle for justice and equality.