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The Leadership of Martin Luther King Jr

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The Leadership of Martin Luther King Jr.

Abstract
The visionary leadership of Martin Luther King Jr. influenced a nation, and ultimately affected a dramatic change in the area of Civil Rights. The achievements he accomplished in the arena of Human rights still serve as a platform for social change today, even decades after his death. Martin is hailed as a classic Charismatic and Transformational Leader, whose masterful rhetorical skills and personalized leadership empowered many Americans to stand up and claim their rights as American citizens.
This paper will provide an analysis of Martin Luther King’s leadership style, and speak briefly about its development. We will discuss his background and the factors that greatly influenced his success as a leader. We will also cover Martin’s application of influence tactics, such as rational persuasion and inspirational appeals, and reveal an almost textbook ideal of leader, follower and situation dynamics. In general, we will discuss his vision and finally pinpoint the factors that ultimately led to his rise in power.

“Always bear in mind that your resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing.” Abraham Lincoln, U.S. President.
Introduction
Of all of the leadership styles that have been studied, observed and researched throughout the ages, Charismatic and Transformational Leadership, are cited as being the most powerful. Martin Luther King Jr. is definitely one of the most charismatic and transformational leaders of all time. His journey, struggles and triumphs, many of which were recorded, reflect an almost “textbook” definition of what charismatic leadership looks like. In this paper, I will discuss the origins of his leadership style, his mentors and influences, as well as his majestic rise in social and political power against all odds; amidst severe opposition by those who wanted to

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