MLK Jr.'s real name was Michael King. Learn how this civil rights leader got his iconic name.

Have you ever heard of Michael King? He was a remarkable theologian, author, and civil rights activist who was recognized as one of the greatest speakers of the 20th century. But most of us know him as Martin Luther King. Yes, the renowned leader of the civil rights movement was actually born with the name Michael King, Jr. However, when he was just five years old, his father, Michael King Sr., decided to change their names.

Interestingly, the name Martin Luther was not chosen at random. It has significant historical and religious significance. In the 16th century, a German theologian named Martin Luther challenged the beliefs of Catholicism and led the Protestant Reformation. He eventually founded the Protestant church. It is believed that King Sr., who was a Baptist minister, learned about Martin Luther's story during a visit to Germany in 1934.

According to Clayborne Carson, editor of The Autobiography of Martin Luther King, Jr., this visit was a meaningful experience for King Sr. “It was a big deal for him to go there, to the birthplace of Protestantism," Carson explained to the Washington Post. "That probably planted the idea of changing his name to Martin Luther King."

Even the actor who portrays Martin Luther King in the new series Genius:MLK/X, Kelvin Harrison Jr., was surprised to learn about the name change. In an interview with People, he expressed his disbelief, saying, "I couldn't believe his name was Michael. Was anybody else shocked by that? I mean, that was pretty cool." Harrison went on to reflect on what this name change may have meant for King, Jr., and how it was a pivotal moment in his life.

Genius:MLK/X is the latest installment of National Geographic's docu-drama series that showcases the lives of influential historical figures. This eight-episode series delves into the formative years of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X. The show premiered on Feb. 1 on National Geographic.

This revelation about Martin Luther King's name adds another layer to the already fascinating story of this civil rights icon. It's a reminder that even the most well-known figures have intriguing origins and stories waiting to be uncovered.

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