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Today in History: Martin Luther King Jr. assassinated in Memphis

4/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On April 4, 1968, Martin Luther King Jr., a leading figure in the American civil rights movement, was assassinated at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee, at 6:01 p.m. CST. He was 39 years old and was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. His death marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for racial equality.

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Story summary

On April 4, 1968, Martin Luther King Jr., a leading figure in the American civil rights movement, was assassinated at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee, at 6:01 p.m. CST. He was 39 years old and was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. His death marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for racial equality.