When it comes to notable eulogies in history, few speeches stand out as much as the one given at Martin Luther King Jr's funeral. Delivered by a close ally and friend, the eulogy paid homage to one of the greatest civil rights leaders the world has ever known. In this article, we will explore the background, content and impact of that eulogy, and take a closer look at the person who addressed the crowd that day.
Are you struggling to write a meaningful eulogy during this difficult time? Our professional eulogy writing service can help you honour your loved one in less than 48 hours, with no additional stress. We help you preserve the legacy of a cherished life, in your time of grief. Find out more →
Table of Contents
Background of Martin Luther King Jr's Funeral
Martin Luther King Jr., the iconic civil rights leader, was assassinated on April 4, 1968 in Memphis, Tennessee. His death sent shockwaves around the world and left many people heartbroken. As a result, his funeral, held on April 9, 1968, in Atlanta, Georgia, was attended by thousands of people, including political and religious leaders from around the world.
The Man Who Delivered the Eulogy - Dr. Benjamin Mays
The person chosen to deliver Martin Luther King Jr's eulogy was Dr. Benjamin Mays, a distinguished educator, minister, and civil rights leader. Mays was a mentor and a close friend of King, having known him since his college days at Morehouse College where Mays served as president. In many ways, Mays' life and career paralleled that of King, as both were born in the South and fought against racial discrimination throughout their lives.
Life and Career of Benjamin Mays
- Benjamin Mays was born in 1894 in South Carolina and experienced racial discrimination firsthand, which shaped his lifelong fight against injustice.
- He became an ordained Baptist minister and attended Bates College in Maine, followed by the University of Chicago where he earned a PhD in Sociology.
- Mays served as president of Morehouse College in Atlanta from 1940 to 1967, transforming it into a distinguished institution for African American men.
- He was actively involved in the civil rights movement, working along with Martin Luther King Jr. on various campaigns and initiatives.
- In 1970, Mays was elected the first African American president of the Atlanta Board of Education, where he helped integrate the city's public schools.
- He passed away in 1984, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a relentless advocate for equality.
Content and Impact of the Eulogy
Dr. Benjamin Mays' eulogy for Martin Luther King Jr. was a moving and powerful tribute, focusing not only on the loss of a great leader but also urging the world to continue King's work in the fight for civil rights and equality. Mays highlighted King's accomplishments, courage, and dedication, while also emphasizing his unwavering faith in nonviolence as the means to achieve social change.
Key Points of the Eulogy
- Mays opened with a statement on how King's assassination had shocked and saddened the world, recognizing the vast reach of his influence and impact.
- Mention of King's dream of a racially integrated America and how he fought tirelessly to achieve it.
- Emphasis on King's commitment to nonviolent means, in spite of facing violence and hatred, to bring about change.
- A call to action for those in attendance to carry on King's legacy and continue the struggle for civil rights in his absence.
Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One
Who Gave Mlk Jr Eulogy Example:
[To see the full eulogy by Benjamin Mays for Martin Luther King Jr., please visit the link below.]
https://kinginstitute.stanford.edu/king-papers/documents/eulogy-behalf-martin-luther-king-jr
Frequently Asked Questions
Who delivered the eulogy for Martin Luther King Jr.?
The eulogy for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was delivered by his close friend, mentor, and fellow civil rights leader, Reverend Dr. Benjamin Mays, who was at the time the President of Morehouse College, where Dr. King had also studied.
When and where was Martin Luther King Jr.'s funeral held?
Martin Luther King Jr.'s funeral was held on April 9, 1968, at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where he and his father served as pastors.
What was the key message in Dr. Benjamin Mays' eulogy for MLK Jr.?
Dr. Mays' eulogy emphasized Dr. King's unfaltering commitment to non-violence, his steadfast dedication to civil rights, and his belief in the power of love over hate. Mays honored King as a prophet who called for justice and equality.
Was anyone else involved in the funeral service?
Yes, various individuals, including family members, civil rights leaders, and government officials, took part in the service. Coretta Scott King, his widow, also played a crucial role in the planning and the service itself.
How long after Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination was the funeral held?
The funeral was held five days after Dr. King's assassination, which occurred on April 4, 1968.
What impact did the eulogy have on the public and civil rights movement?
The eulogy delivered by Dr. Benjamin Mays resonated deeply with mourners and the nation, reaffirming the importance of continuing the civil rights struggle with the same dignity and non-violence that Dr. King espoused.
Were national figures in attendance at the funeral?
Yes, a number of high-profile individuals, including political leaders, civil rights activists, and international dignitaries, attended the funeral services of Dr. King.
How many people attended MLK Jr.'s funeral?
An estimated 50,000 people attended Martin Luther King Jr.'s funeral procession, with many traveling great distances to pay their respects.
Did Martin Luther King Jr. foresee his own death?
In his speeches, especially his last public address known as the "I've Been to the Mountaintop" speech, Dr. King expressed premonitions about his untimely death, indicating his awareness of the constant threats against his life.
Has Dr. King's burial site remained the same?
No, initially Dr. King was buried at South-View Cemetery. In 1970, his remains were moved to the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, also known as the King Center, in Atlanta.
What were the reactions to Dr. King's assassination?
The assassination of Dr. King prompted an outpouring of shock, grief, and anger across the nation and the world. It also led to nationwide riots in more than 100 cities and a marked escalation in the civil rights movement.
Did Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination impact legislation?
Yes, the tragedy galvanized public support for equality, contributing to the passing of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, also known as the Fair Housing Act, which was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson one week after Dr. King’s assassination.
Can visitors pay their respects at Dr. King's resting place?
Yes, visitors can pay their respects at the King Center, where Dr. King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, are interred. The site serves as a national historic landmark and a focal point for continuing education on nonviolent social change.
How have MLK Jr.'s contributions influenced modern society?
MLK Jr.'s leadership in promoting civil rights and racial equality has significantly shaped modern society, inspiring legislation and reforms that continue to challenge and dismantle systemic racism while encouraging nonviolent protest.
What significance does MLK Day hold?
MLK Day is observed on the third Monday of January each year to honor Dr. King's birthday and legacy. It is a day dedicated to reflection on the principles of racial equality and nonviolent social change that he championed.
Where can I find the full text of Dr. Benjamin Mays' eulogy for Martin Luther King Jr.?
The full text of Dr. Benjamin Mays' eulogy is available in various online archives and at the King Center's official website and library/archive for those interested in reading the full speech.
Is the recording of the eulogy available for public listening?
Yes, recordings of Dr. Benjamin Mays delivering the eulogy at Dr. King's funeral service have been preserved and are available through certain educational institutions, the King Center, and online media platforms.
How is Dr. King's legacy preserved and promoted today?
Dr. King's legacy is preserved and promoted through institutions like the King Center, the annual observance of MLK Day, educational programs, and worldwide nonviolent initiatives inspired by his teachings.
What was Coretta Scott King's role following her husband's death?
Following her husband's death, Coretta Scott King continued to be a key figure in the civil rights movement, championing the cause for racial equality, women's rights, and world peace. She also played a pivotal role in founding the King Center and establishing MLK Day.
What are some ways to engage with MLK Jr.'s legacy?
People can engage with MLK Jr.'s legacy by visiting historical sites related to the civil rights movement, participating in service activities on MLK Day, reading his writings, and continuing to educate themselves and others on issues pertaining to social justice and equity.
How did MLK Jr.'s philosophies influence global civil rights movements?
MLK Jr.'s approach to civil rights, grounded in nonviolence and justice, not only shaped the American civil rights movement but also had a profound influence on global movements for human rights, often serving as a template for peaceful protest and social advocacy worldwide.
In conclusion, Dr. Benjamin Mays' eulogy for Martin Luther King Jr. was a stirring and emotive tribute that both celebrated King's life and motivated those listening to carry on his vital work. The speech stands as a testament to the deep bond and shared commitment to civil rights between these two remarkable men. We hope that you have found this exploration informative and inspiring, and invite you to share this article with others so that the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and Dr. Benjamin Mays may continue to inspire future generations. For more historical eulogies and guidance in creating your own heartfelt funeral speeches, explore Eulogy Assistant's extensive resources.