Martin Luther King, Jr., on Leadership: Inspiration and Wisdom for Challenging Times

by Donald T. Phillips

Read the detailed and absorbing chronicle of Martin Luther King's leadership during the most tumultuous period in America's recent past—featuring a foreword by Dr. Bernice King.Martin Luther King Jr. is known for famous speeches such as I Have a Dream, and his ability to inspire the people of the United States to demand equality, regardless of the color of their skin. His ability to lead has cemented himself as one of America's greatest civil rights advocates.And in today's world, his wisdom and teachings are needed more than ever. Martin Luther King Jr., On Leadership chronicles the actions of Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and identifies the key leadership skills he displayed suchPractice what you preachTake direct action without waiting for other agencies to actGive credit where credit is dueLaws only declare rights, they do not deliver themAnd much more . . . This book is part history and part guide to becoming a great leader, inspired by Martin Luther King Jr., an advocate to peaceful change while never wavering in making the opposition listen and give in.

Genres: Leadership, Nonfiction, History, Business, Biography, Inspirational, Politics

384 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1999

About the author

Donald T. Phillips is a nonfiction writer. He has written or coauthored 20 books, including a trilogy on American leadership (Lincoln on Leadership, The Founding Fathers on Leadership, and Martin Luther King Jr. on Leadership).
Phillips has also collaborated on books with several celebrities, including: Norman Brinker, Mike Krzyzewski, Phil Mickelson, Rudy Ruettiger, Greg Norman, Cal Ripken Jr., and Lt. Gen. Ricardo S. Sanchez.

Reviews

[Jason Koivu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heavy on the ideals of leadership, using King as an example. Still, you get a basic King bio with a spotlight on his rise to a position of leadership in one of the most important movements of our times.

[Kevin Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Donald Phillips in his book Martin Luther King Jr. On Leadership presents a systematic study on the leadership style of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) He chronicles the life of the human rights leader by examining the decisions that he made throughout his life as a child of a prominent Christian family of ministers, student at Morehouse College, graduate student/scholar, church pastor, and civil rights leader. The author reflects and appraises the decisions that MLK made and organizes his book categorically with themes consistent with his findings while assessing MLK’s development into a world leader. The book has four parts and in each part specific strategies are illuminated by Phillips that serve as strategies which are recommended as key characteristics of the various leadership dimension of MLK.
In the first part of the book Phillips suggests that leadership has to be cultivated by constant preparation in order to make a great impact on people and reach a goal. A leader must be first a servant who is always moved by the need to be and express love to others. Also, the leader must have an audacious drive to acquire and integrate knowledge, extend and refine new knowledge, and use knowledge meaningfully with goal of learning to become habitual. He contends that once knowledge is habitual the learned one must master the art of articulating a message, vision, mission or goal by the rudiments of public speaking.
In the second part of the book Phillips gives examples of how MLK was able to mobilize individuals by getting them to see his vision and take ownership of the vision by enlisting them to work towards accomplishing tasks that were comfortable to them. Thus, with this leadership philosophy those that profess leadership must be able to value people and make them feel valuable. Phillip emphasizes the importance of planning, teamwork, and acknowledging the weakness and limitations of the leader while recognizing the strength and abilities of others.
In the third part of the book Phillips expresses the significance and role of leadership in assuring that individuals who have enlisted in the cause must be managed, motivated, and inspired in an attempt to keep up the momentum of the group and maintain the organization effectiveness. The leader must have the ability to be as savvy as an attorney or businessman when negotiating and as compassionate and empathetic as a psychologist or minister while recognizing human group and individual dynamics when working towards a common goal.
In the fourth part of the book Phillips gives a summation of the previous parts of the book and reiterating the importance and role of the leader in leading confidently and courageously regardless of uncertain outcomes and painful possibilities. The leader, like a maestro in a symphony orchestra, has the awesome task of facilitating harmony and conducting synergistic energy with many to reach a climatic end.
Kings’ decisions eventually catapulted him into worldwide acclaim while he guided some American both black and white, rich and poor, conservative and liberal towards a non-violent social revolution. Like MLK, Phillips concludes that the leader who is focused on achieved a goal must be able to make decisions consistent with various leadership dimension like judgment, risk-taking, delegation, problem-solving, and creativity if they are to be successful as a leader. I enjoyed reading this book. Phillips documents the life of MLK in a fair and clear manner. It provided me a rubric to assess my and reflect on my decisions as a leader working towards advancing the Kingdom of God on earth.

[TCB · Rating 4 out of 5]

different than I expected D Phillips puts his spin on several leaders mainly talking about "leadership" not MLK. overall ok read

[Marina · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book carries the biography of MLK, Jr. and his art of being a leader in the civil rights movement. The book brings up meaningful quotes from Dr. King . I do not really like to read the biography books, but sometimes when someone talks about certain historical people that I am not informed, it makes me curious about the book and I read it. Yes, I am ashamed to admit that I did not know much about Doctor King prior this year as I was raised in a different country. I was really moved by the circumstances of this man's life, the strength he demonstrated in the face of real hatred and danger. It also struck me that Dr. King's life was very short, but impressed me by his enormous work he has done for his own country. The book presents MLK, Jr. life and his contribution to the present American society. As a society we often neglect people who lived before and their “movement” in the history. We often take for granted what we have now (the rights), however this book is a good reminder to all of us that what is now built is the merit of somebody like: Martin Luther King. Also, this book brings a message of the bright and beautiful story of the American dream against what is the worst part of American history, post slavery segregation.
I liked the realistic voice that the author used to describe the REAL historical facts.The voice is strong and firm , because it references to dates, and real facts. In my opinion, this book can be used when informing students about the people who lived in the past, about strength and not fearful steps for earning the justice .

[Dana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Giving some excellent insight into MLK, Jr, but not particularly the best writing I've ever seen..

[Shellie · Rating 3 out of 5]

As it went through some of his speeches it chronicled his life and put it in a leadership perspective. Very well done.

[Emmanuel Mandela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good one on leadership and it is practicable.

[Garrett · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good overview of Dr. Martin Luther King’s life and work. I appreciate that this series distills the subject’s actions into discreet leadership principles for the reader to apply. This author has a similar book on Abraham Lincoln that is with the quick read.

It should be noted that this book does not delve into the criticisms of or apparent flaws in Dr. King’s personal life. These flaws appear quite substantial (See Garrow, David, “The troubling legacy of Martin Luther King,” https://www.davidgarrow.com/wp-conten..., punished in Standpoint June 2019). These negative aspects of the man should fairly be considered with the positive ones—with the caveat that the evidence presented in the article was collected by J. Edgar Hoover’s FBI, which was extremely biased against Dr. King. But as Eric Greitens states in his book “Resilience,” we can have heroes and fully acknowledge their shortcomings. As General Mattis said, “The last perfect man on earth died on a cross long ago.” that quotation is fitting considering Dr. King’s message of peaceful non-violence rooted in Christian theology. Overall, we must all decide what flaws we are willing to abide in our heroes.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

The reverence that America has for Martin Luther King Jr. is undeniable, and Phillips does an amazing job demonstrating why that is. The Civil Rights Movement that MLK Jr. made possible is one which was long overdue in America, and embodied the tenets of so many philosophers and leaders before him. In choosing non-violence, many followers then and even now question the effectiveness of it as a modus operandi, yet the facts and the rhetoric embodied in this book reinforce why it was in fact so powerful a movement. The movement has not died down, it has changed and adapted to the ways of the contemporary world, yet the origins of what MLK Jr. fought for are clearly stated here, and the questions of leadership and tenacity are answered with example after example.

[Jeffrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read presenting a lot of the history surrounding the Civil Rights Movement in the context of leadership principles. This is a great book for those who want a basic introduction into MLK's prolific presence throughout 50's and 60's America. MLK's ability to deliver a speech was second-to-none - the best I have ever seen. He leveraged this phenomenal talent to become one of the most important figures in United States history. As an aside- his Letter from a Birmingham Jail is a stunning piece of prose that is one of the most thought-provoking essays on non-violent protest you will ever read.

[Tony Rogers Jr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic analysis of Dr King and his movement that changed the course of history. Part biography and part leadership course. This book draws on the life and times of Martin Luther King to distill his principles off effective leadership into a practical manuel of instruction.

Like most books that I read, I felt it could have been more concise but the content was excellent. I highly recommend.

[Busime Mdakebwa · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED IT. I didn't have the time to finish it all the way to the end but it was powerful! I read this book for Black History Month and it was sooo empowering. I love how the author manage to speak soo much on Dr.King's life but also highlighted how we can use this in our leadership roles at work and at home. It's the perfect history book and leadership/self-help book mashed up together. There's not a single topic on both ends of the spectrum that are not being covered.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic book. I loved how the author went into details of MLK Jr.'s mannerisms, actions, decisions, and demonstrated on how he was such a monumental, fantastic leader that lead such an amazing movement so successfully. I will definitely be adding in things I learned and try to apply them to myself. Compassion, listening, etc. It sounds so difficult, but I'm glad that MLK has set such a great example.

I highly recommend this book to everyone.

[Leonard Ondigo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Presents a chilling anecdotes of the social and political turbulences of that age, and how one man stood against the odds, leading a movement that has left an indelible mark in the leaflets of history of justice and equality. The life of Martine Luther King Jnr, especially his leadership qualities have placed an enduring influence in my life.

[Ian Bordenave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Donald Phillips does a masterful job weaving Martin Luther King Jr.'s life, the history of the Civil Rights Movement, and leadership lessons in a single volume. It is a good read for anyone wishing to become acquainted the slain Civil Rights leader and the movement he led. My only criticism is the book fizzles out rather than comes to a compelling end.

[John Shamburg · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thoughtful primer for future leaders

The book, like Dr. King himself, demonstrates leadership not through theories and axioms, but by concrete example. Dr. King walked it as he talked it, and this book encourages its readers to follow his actions as much as (if not more than) his words.

[Andreus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE HOW THE AUTHOR HAS A GOOD BALANCE BETWEEN THEORY AND PRACTICAL APPLICATION. HE ADDS A QUICK SUMMARY TO EVERY CHAPTER WHICH ALSO HELPS FURTHER ONE'S APPLICATION OF LEADERSHIP SKILLS HE OBSERVED IN HIS TIME. THIS MONTH OF JANUARY 2020 I CHOSE TO RE READ THE BOOK IN HONOR OF DR KING.

[Ernest · Rating 5 out of 5]

The attributes of a visionary leader as opposed to a manger. A review of the key moments of the American Civil Rights movement and the keys of its success due to skillful leadership. The book is an excellent resource for a leadership training seminar.

[Joshua Loftin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed learning more about MLK’s responsibilities in the various movements and organizations he oversaw. There were valuable principles of leadership that are applicable to anyone in a position of authority.

[Kym Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great perspective and direction that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. campaigned on during some of the most challenging and horrific times in the history of the United States of America. Good read!

[Dan Mutter · Rating 4 out of 5]

“There comes a time when one must take the position that it is neither safe nor politic nor popular, but he must do it because his conscience tells him it is right”

[Mauricio Parrado P · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Tie your vision to the human desire for a better tomorrow”
“…not be judged by the color of the skin but the content of the character ..”

[Miles Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A phenomenal take on leadership. Jam-packed with essential lessons. A must-read.

[Seth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book on the life in an amazing and inspirational person. Donald Phillips does it again! Highly recommend.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short but powerful exploration of leadership and the work which Martin Luther King Jr. accomplished. I need to buy this book - it puts into words so much of what I believe about leadership, but had not been able to express clearly.

Want a very brief description of the leadership style discussed in this book? I'd say it centers around empathy, vision, and wisdom. I have always tried to lead with empathy and wisdom (or at least an understanding of as much of the situation as I can discover through research and questions). I have trouble with the vision part - but what an inspiration this story is! I expect to read it again and keep learning from it.

[Jaime · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book as a requirement for a leadership class, and got a lot out of it than I had expected. It breaks down the leadership style of Martin Luther King Jr and really gives you a new and personal perspective of his life. He is definitely someone I would want to model my leadership after. It's important to be educated in this area of our history - I think many people, including myself, don't fully realize the horror that the African American population went through, and how they were consistently given freedom/rights just to have them taken away again. I would recommend to this book anyone interested in the civil rights movement.

[Ellis · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was okay. These "so and so On Leadership" books usually have fairly good biographical stuff and little sections at the end of the chapters that point out the actions of the book's subject that demonstrate his/her leadership skills. The book was fine really, but it missed so much outstanding MLKJ stuff. I guess some of my favorite things that MLKJ did was some of his writing and speeches, and I guess some of that stuff may have been a bit off-topic for a leadership book.

[Aubrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every person in this country should have to read at least some of this book. The introduction was such a great synopsis of history, it gives amazing context to MLK's time and our current society. It would be so valuable to have this type of synopsis for all peoples and require that these histories be taught in schools, because few of our citizens truly understand what has made our society what it is today. This book was amazing!

[Byron Wade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just finished reading this book. I thought it was a great chronicle of the way Martin Luther King, Jr. exhibited leadership throughout his ministry and life. Especially enjoyed how he learned from good and bad experiences. I found in this book traits of leadership that I already possess as well as ones I would like to develop. Definitely a recommended book!

[Wally Beddoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great insight into the life of Dr. King and the challenges he faced. He was a true leader and a man of great wisdom.