Martin Luther King Jr. is the influential figure known for founding the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), a key organization in the American civil rights movement. His leadership played a crucial role in advocating for nonviolent protests against racial segregation and discrimination. Through his powerful speeches, including the iconic "I Have a Dream," King inspired millions to join the struggle for racial equality and justice. His work brought national attention to civil rights issues and helped pave the way for significant legislative changes, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964.