He faced segregation and racism in early childhood. Inspired by the teachings of Jesus Christ and the ideologies of Mahatma Gandhi, King formed his own philosophies regarding a nonviolent lifestyle. Even when faced with insults, beatings and jail time, he remained resolute in his efforts to eradicate injustice, poverty and war. His critics felt he was destroying peace in their community through protests and marches. The nonviolent movement also drew ire from sections of society which believed violence was a necessary form of self-defense.
Even today, his powerful speeches inspire people to fight for equality and justice as can be seen in the Black Lives Matter Movement that is reverberating through the United States.