Martin Luther King Jr. is one of the most prominent figures known for his pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. He advocated for nonviolent protest and civil disobedience to combat racial segregation and discrimination, drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi's principles. King's leadership in significant events, such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, where he delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, was instrumental in raising awareness and garnering support for civil rights legislation. His efforts led to transformative changes in American society and legislation.