Martin Luther King Jr. is one of history's most iconic figures, remembered for his pivotal role in advancing civil rights in the United States. His messages of equality, nonviolence, and justice resonate across borders and generations. While many people recognize his “I Have a Dream” speech or his leadership during the Civil Rights Movement, there is so much more to learn about this remarkable individual. Here are 10 lesser-known facts about Martin Luther King Jr. that will deepen your appreciation for his legacy.

1. His Birth Name Wasn’t Martin

Though the world knows him as Martin Luther King Jr., he was actually born Michael King Jr. on January 15, 1929. His father, Michael King Sr., changed both their names in 1934 after visiting Germany and being inspired by the Protestant Reformation leader Martin Luther. The name change symbolized the fight for justice and reform, values both men embodied throughout their lives.

2. He Was A Doctor—But Not Of Medicine

King earned his doctorate at just 25 years old, completing a Ph.D. in Systematic Theology at Boston University by 1955. His dissertation explored religious and moral ethics, specifically comparing the views of Reinhold Niebuhr and Paul Tillich. Fun fact? It’s widely debated whether parts of his thesis were plagiarized. Yet, his academic achievements remain impressive as he balanced his studies with his burgeoning activism.

3. He Skipped Two Grades

Martin Luther King Jr. was a brilliant student, skipping both the 9th and 12th grades due to his academic excellence. This allowed him to start college at the age of 15. He attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, the same historically Black college his father and grandfather had attended, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology.

4. His “I Have A Dream” Speech Wasn’t Entirely Planned

King’s iconic speech delivered during the 1963 March on Washington is often regarded as one of the greatest pieces of oratory in history. Interestingly, the most famous part—“I Have a Dream”—was ad-libbed. Gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, onstage with King, reportedly encouraged him mid-speech by saying, “Tell them about the dream, Martin!” The rest is history.

5. He Was Arrested Nearly 30 Times

King’s activism landed him in jail 29 times, most often on charges of civil disobedience and protesting without permits. These arrests became a badge of honor for him, symbolizing his unwavering dedication to the fight for justice. His time in a Birmingham jail in 1963 famously produced the powerful “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” his written defense of nonviolent protest.

6. He Inspired Civil Rights Movements Worldwide

King’s philosophy of nonviolence, heavily influenced by Mahatma Gandhi, inspired civil rights movements well beyond the United States. His writings and speeches became a guiding light for activists in struggles for justice in South Africa, India, and Northern Ireland. His work demonstrated the universal power of peaceful resistance in the face of oppression.

7. He Was A Grammy Winner

While we don't associate King with music, his powerful voice did earn him a Grammy—posthumously. The recording of his 1967 sermon, “Why I Oppose the War in Vietnam,” won the Grammy for Best Spoken Word Album in 1971. This award was yet another testament to the enduring power of his words.