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?
An ancient example of Christian religious beliefs?
Go To Item 16A
Another work by a prominent figure in the 1960s?
Go To Item 7A