I Have a Dream is a notable literary work by Martin Luther King Jr. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of I Have a Dream.
What is the American Dream? Explain.
Or, Who is Martin Luther King Jr.? What, according to him, is the American Dream?
Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) was a notable American Baptist clergyman and civil rights campaigner who is usually regarded as one of the most influential personalities in American history. He was a key figure in the American Civil Rights Movement, which sought to abolish racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans. He shared a profound perspective on the American Dream within his “I Have a Dream” (1963) speech.
Equality and Justice for All: King envisioned an America where everyone, regardless of race or background, could fully access the promises of democracy and enjoy equal rights. He believed in a nation where equality was not just an ideal but a tangible reality. He proclaimed,
I have a dream that one day this nation will rise and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.
Unity and Brotherhood among Different Communities: His dream encompassed unity among people from diverse backgrounds, fostering brotherhood and cooperation. He envisioned a nation where individuals, regardless of their racial or ethnic identities, would unite in harmony. King expressed,
I have a dream that one day… little Black boys and Black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.
Freedom and Opportunity for All: King believed in a society where everyone would have equal access to opportunities, where freedom and justice were not confined but extended to all individuals. He passionately articulated,
Let freedom ring… when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God’s children… will be able to join hands and sing… ‘Free at last. Free at last.
Martin Luther King Jr. thought the American Dream was about creating a just and equitable society where everyone could live with dignity and respect. His talks and activities inspire people worldwide to fight for this goal.