This Day in American History: Martin Luther King Delivers his Last Speech

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April 3, 2012

On this date in 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered what would be his last speech. It was in support of the striking sanitation workers at Mason Temple in Memphis, TN, the day before he was assassinated.

“Well, I don’t know what will happen now. We’ve got some difficult days ahead. But it doesn’t matter with me now. Because I’ve been to the mountaintop. And I don’t mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the promised land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land. And I’m happy, tonight. I’m not worried about anything. I’m not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord. “

Read the entire speech here.

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