The famous American civil rights leader known for his nonviolent activism 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 through peaceful protests and meaningful dialogue. His leadership in events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, where he delivered the iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, exemplifies his commitment to nonviolence and justice. King’s legacy profoundly influenced civil rights legislation and continues to inspire social justice movements around the globe.