Who was a key leader of the American civil rights movement in the 1960s?

Martin Luther King Jr. was a pivotal figure in the American civil rights movement during the 1960s, known for his commitment to nonviolent protest and civil disobedience. His leadership played a crucial role in galvanizing public support for civil rights initiatives, most notably through his involvement in key events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, where he delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. King advocated for racial equality and justice, drawing heavily on his Christian beliefs and the principles of Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence. His efforts were instrumental in the advancement of civil rights legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, making profound impacts on American society and law.