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The Stuart and Mimi Rose Collection /

Martin Luther King Jr.

Item 8A

Advance Press Copy, “I Have A Dream” Speech

1963
Advance Copy

Copies of major speeches were (and still are) released to the press before the actual delivery of the speech itself. This Advance Press Copy of one of the most important speeches in U.S. history is extraordinary not for what is included, but for what is missing from it. At the 1963 March on Washington, as Dr. King neared the end of the prepared speech, his close friend, gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, shouted to him: “Tell them about the dream, Martin.” He then set aside his text and began “So even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream.” Dr. King went on extemporaneously, inspiring his audience then with words so energizing and memorable that they continue to affect audiences in the same way today. Thus, this speech has come to be referred to as Dr. King’s famous “I Have A Dream” speech.


What will you discover next?

Visit the Folger to see this object on exhibit

Imprints in Time

Imprints in Time

This special exhibition at the Folger features rare books from the collection of Stuart and Mimi Rose that present literary, cultural, and historical high points.
Through Sun, Jan 5, 2025
Rose Exhibition Hall