In “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” Martin Luther King, Jr., presents the idea that American history includes African Americans, too; that is, African Americans can claim the same historical heritage as white Americans. At the time, this was a radical idea.


How does King develop this theme?


Select each correct answer. There is possibly more than one.

AHe describes how African Americans were present “before Plymouth Rock” and through many key moments in American history.

BHe argues that African Americans would have participated in more events of American history if white Americans had been willing to include them.

CHe makes connections between the American fight for independence from Britain and the civil rights movement.

DHe points out the many ways that African Americans have contributed to the culture of America.