The famous civil rights leader known for his nonviolent protests is Martin Luther King Jr. He emerged as a prominent figure in the American civil rights movement during the 1950s and 1960s, advocating for racial equality and social justice through peaceful means. His philosophy was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi and emphasized civil disobedience and nonviolent resistance to combat racial segregation and discrimination. King's leadership during critical events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, along with his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, played a pivotal role in advancing the civil rights movement and transforming American society.