The historical figure associated with the phrase "I have a dream" is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He delivered this iconic speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963. The speech encapsulated King's vision for a racially integrated and harmonious America, expressing his dream of equality, justice, and freedom for all people, regardless of race. This powerful moment in the civil rights movement helped to inspire millions and mobilize support for racial equality legislation. King's eloquent oratory remains a significant symbol of the struggle against racial injustice and has had a lasting impact on American society and civil rights movements globally.