Member-only story

Who Was Coretta Scott King?

Craig Blair

·19.2k Followers· Follow

Published in Who Was Coretta Scott King? (Who Was?)

4 min read · 1 week before

448 View Claps

37 Respond

Save

Listen

: The Unsung Heroine of the Civil Rights Movement

Coretta Scott King, born on April 27, 1927, emerged as a towering figure in the American civil rights movement, standing alongside her husband, Martin Luther King Jr., and leaving an indelible mark on the struggle for racial equality.

Who Was Coretta Scott King? (Who Was?)

by Gail Herman

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	84076 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	110 pages

Early Life and Education

Coretta came from humble beginnings in Marion, Alabama. Her parents, Obadiah Scott and Bernice McMurray Scott, instilled in her a strong sense of independence and determination.

As a brilliant student, Coretta excelled in school and pursued higher education at Antioch College in Ohio, where she studied music and sociology. It was during this time that she met Martin Luther King Jr., who became her lifelong partner and fellow crusader.

Marriage and Family Life

Coretta and Martin Luther King Jr. married in 1953 and became a formidable duo in the civil rights movement. Their union was blessed with four children: Yolanda, Martin Luther King III, Dexter, and Bernice.

As a mother, Coretta balanced her activism with her responsibilities at home, creating a nurturing environment for her family amidst the challenges of the struggle.

Activism and Leadership

Coretta played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement. She was an integral part of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, where she organized women and provided unwavering support for her husband's leadership.

Beyond her work in Montgomery, Coretta became a national figure, speaking out against segregation and discrimination. She participated in numerous marches and protests, including the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963.

The King Center

After Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination in 1968, Coretta dedicated her life to perpetuating his legacy and advancing the cause of civil rights.

In 1968, she founded the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, known as "The King Center," to honor her husband's memory and continue his work.

Later Years and Legacy

Coretta Scott King remained actively involved in civil rights and social justice issues until her passing in 2006. She received numerous awards and honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2004.

Coretta's contributions to the civil rights movement and her unwavering commitment to equality will forever be remembered.

: A Beacon of Hope and Determination

Coretta Scott King's life and work exemplify the power of one person to make a profound impact on society. As an advocate for civil rights, a loving mother, and a symbol of strength and resilience, she continues to inspire generations to come.

Her legacy reminds us of the importance of unity, nonviolence, and the tireless pursuit of justice for all.

Who Was Coretta Scott King? (Who Was?)

by Gail Herman

4.8 out of 5