Martin Luther King Jr. was the leader of the civil rights movement known for advocating nonviolent protest against racial segregation and discrimination. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's principles of nonviolent resistance, King emphasized peaceful demonstrations, marches, and civil disobedience to challenge unjust laws and social norms. His commitment to nonviolence was pivotal during critical events, such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, where he delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. King's strategy helped galvanize public opinion and mobilized citizens, contributing to significant legislative changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964.