Who was the leader of the Civil Rights Movement known for his non-violent opposition?

The leader of the Civil Rights Movement known for his non-violent opposition was Martin Luther King Jr. He was a prominent figure who advocated for civil rights through peaceful protests, inspired by the principles of non-violence championed by Mahatma Gandhi. His belief was that social change could be achieved through love, understanding, and peaceful resistance rather than through violence.

King's leadership during key events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and the Selma to Montgomery marches highlighted his commitment to fighting racial injustice while maintaining a philosophy of non-violent activism. His famous "I Have a Dream" speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963 encapsulated the movement's goals of equality and justice for African Americans and became a defining moment in American history.

While other leaders like Malcolm X, Jesse Jackson, and Stokely Carmichael played significant roles in the movement, their approaches differed. Malcolm X, for example, was known for advocating for black empowerment by any means necessary, which often included more militant methods. Therefore, King stands out distinctly for his focus on non-violence and peaceful protest as the primary means for achieving civil rights.