A significant event in 1968 that marked the peak of the Civil Rights Movement was the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4. King was a prominent leader and advocate for civil rights, nonviolent protest, and social justice. His death shocked the nation and prompted widespread grief and anger, sparking riots and protests in cities across the U.S. King's assassination highlighted the urgency of addressing racial inequality and civil rights issues. His legacy inspired future generations and solidified his role as a martyr for the cause, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.