1. “Montgomery Boycott” and “A Eulogy for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Preparing to Read: Page 880

2. Quick Write: Changing Society
Think of something you would like to change in your community. What steps could you make to work toward that change? Why this this issue important to you?

3. Literary Analysis: Historical Events in Memoirs
Memoirs often include important historical events in which the writer or subject was involved.
In this selection, Coretta Scott King was a first hand witness to her husband’s involvement in the Montgomery bus boycott.
Through memoir, we can gain a new perspective on a historical event.

4. Reading Skill: Distinguish Fact from Opinion
It is important to differentiate historical fact from author’s perspective (opinion) when reading a memoir.
A FACT is a statement that can be verified using a reliable source, such as an encyclopedia.
An OPINION is a personal belief that cannot be proved.
If a statement is even partially opinionated, it is an opinion.
King often expresses opinions when she uses adjectives to describe people in historical circumstances.

5. Civil Rights Champion: Coretta Scott King
Experiences with discrimination from her childhood prompted King’s interest in and dedication to the Civil Rights movement.
She worked tirelessly alongside her husband, refusing to be daunted, even after their home was bombed in 1956.
After her husband’s assassination in 1968, King continued to strive for racial justice.
Founded the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta, Ga.

6. Build Background: The Civil Rights Movement
Prior to 1954, many states, especially in the South, had laws to ensure segregation.
People began to challenge the legality of these laws after WWII.
The Supreme Court ruled that it was unconstitutional to force whites and blacks to attend separate schools.
Segregation continued to exist in other places.
Southern states, especially, were slow to change.
The Montgomery Bus Boycott, lasting 381 days, brought an end to segregation on public busses.

7. Remembering Dr. King
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a Baptist minister and founder of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.
King used powerful words and non-violent protests (sit-ins, boycotts, protest marches) to lead the civil rights movement.
Probably best remembered for the 1963 March on Washington where he delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.
King was shot by a sniper’s bullet while standing on the second-floor balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. He was only 39 years old. (April 4, 1968)
The Civil Rights Act of 1968 was passed a week later on April 11.

8. Robert F. Kennedy Younger brother of of President John F. Kennedy.
Began political career as campaign manager for John’s senatorial then presidential campaigns.
Served as Attorney General under his brother.
Resigned position after John’s assassination 1963.
Senator of New York in 1964.
Ran for president in 1968
Assassinated following his victory speech at the California Democratic Primary on June 5, 1968.

9. Kennedy’s Eulogy of Dr. King
During his presidential campaign, Kennedy prepared to make a speech to a poor, African-American community in Indianapolis.
Upon his arrival, he was informed of King’s assassination.
Advised, for his safety, to cancel his appearance.
Delivered an impromptu eulogy encouraging listeners to remember King’s purpose.
Riots broke out across the country that night, but not in Indianapolis.