The famous civil rights leader known for his nonviolent protests was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He played a crucial role in the American civil rights movement during the 1950s and 1960s, advocating for racial equality and justice through nonviolent resistance inspired by Mahatma Gandhi. King is best remembered for his leadership in major events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, where he delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. His efforts galvanized public opinion against racial discrimination and led to significant legislative changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.