Why Cant We Wait Essay Example
Why Cant We Wait Essay Example

Why Cant We Wait Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (484 words)
  • Published: September 19, 2016
  • Type: Essay
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The book "Why We Cant Wait" by Martin Luther King Jr. delves into the difficulties encountered by African American activists in 1963 and their pressing demand for immediate transformation. It offers a unique and individual viewpoint on the non-violent demonstrations that played a vital role within African American communities in the 60s. The book incorporates ideas from King's other works, such as his famous "Letter From Birmingham Jail," where he expresses, "Perhaps it is easy for those who have never felt the stinging darts of segregation to say, 'Wait.'"

Experiencing mobs lynching your parents and causing the death of your siblings freely, witnessing the majority of twenty million African American individuals trapped in poverty among a prosperous society, struggling to explain to your six-year-old daughter why she can't visit the a

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musement park she saw on TV where tears well up in her eyes upon learning that colored children are not allowed at Funtown - these signs of inferiority emerging in her young mind. Going on a cross-country trip and having to sleep uncomfortably in your car each night because no motel will accept you. Your wife and mother never being addressed as 'Mrs.' with respect. Constantly fighting against a diminishing sense of 'nobodiness'. It is during moments like these when patience reaches its limit, and people are no longer willing to be thrown into hopelessness.

Written in the midst of and shortly after 1963, this book is a must-read for all Americans, regardless of race. It delves into the non-violent campaigns that challenged deeply-rooted discrimination during that time period. Dr. King skillfully explains the movement's reasoning and successful outcomes, while maintainin

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a writing style reminiscent of a preacher's sermon. This perfectly aligns with the content as MLK eloquently portrays African Americans' yearning for freedom from white society. The era of segregation has endured for too long, but MLK's innovative tactics rallied all African Americans in peaceful protest against oppressive white individuals. Fearlessly taking a stand, King guided numerous people towards liberation and further expands on his strategies in this book. Even today, I believe this book carries immense significance, especially given the shocking ignorance displayed by white America.

This book acts as a reminder of the injustices committed by my ancestors, which I am ashamed of. Nevertheless, America has made significant progress since then. Martin Luther King's book offers an astonishing account of a sorrowful yet inspiring period in American history. He personally recounts the events that took place in Birmingham, AL in 1963 and the goals they were aiming to achieve. By reading this book, one can truly appreciate the incredible courage and bravery demonstrated by those involved in this movement, surpassing what can be learned from history textbooks. Despite facing continuous anger and challenges from white individuals, African Americans persevered without resorting to violence. MLK's suggestion for non-violent protest was the first step towards forging a new America.

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