Martin Luther King Letter From Birmingham Jail Analysis

In the Letter from Birmingham Jail written by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., King addressed the concerns of the white clergy and gave support to the direct action committed by African Americans. He writes how the white church is often disappointed in the African American’s lack of patience and how they are quick to be willing to break laws. Despite this, the clergy never questions whether or not segregation is unjust. During this period in the 1960’s, King was disappointed by the way the white clergy was not in support of the religious civil rights movement and King’s goal of equality as a whole. King goes on to write that he is disappointed that white moderates care less about justice and more about order. Order can only be held for so long whilst injustice is around. Through the masterful use of analogies and undeniable examples of injustice, King’s disgruntled response to the clergies proves the justification for direct action taking place to establish equality for African Americans.
Throughout history there is no shortage of injustice. Humans often subjugate one in other without reason other than to raise themselves up. The South in 1963 was no exception. Dr. King’s letter is the prime example of being the bigger person. His maturity, patience, and suave is
evident in the writing and proves to the reader the true impact Dr. King made in our country. He was sick and tired of the procrastination of black rights. He writes that, “There comes a time when the cup of endurance runs over and men are no longer willing to be plunged into an abyss of injustice where they experience the bleakness of corroding despair. I hope, sirs, you can understand our legitimate and unavoidable impatience. “ (King)
Throughout the text, King presents an incredibly valid argument.
He addressed the questions and concerns of the clergy, shutting the validity of their “concerns” down. It seemed like he always knew what his audience would be asking. One example of this is how he goes into why he believes it is morally justifiable to peacefully and willingly disobeys the law. Dr. King knew his audience and understood how to most effectively convey his message to that audience. Dr. King very effectively uses an either-or logical fallacy to draw his audience to his side. Because his topic is so emotionally charged, he is able to almost give an ultimatum from time to time. He makes it very clear that the time to act is at
hand.
Without a doubt, Racism is one of the biggest concepts humans cannot seem to get over. Even in today’s day in age, prejudices are still very much alive and kicking in American society. No matter what people say or do in efforts to eradicate these prejudices, they will always lurk in America’s shadows. Despite this sad realization, King’s courageous act of writing this letter forever changed our country for the better. His cunning writing ability provided an unbreakable argument, which in turn gave support to his agenda. It was absolutely called for, and without it, the savage injustice of segregation could very well still be around today.