Politics

45th Anniversary Of MLK's 'I Have A Dream' Speech

Barack Obama To Give Acceptance Speech On Historic Day

CHICAGO (CBS) ― Thursday marks the 45th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.'s immortal "I Have a Dream" speech.

And with those historic words, Dr. King helped weave the fabric of modern-day America, and of the peaceful struggle for civil rights.

Chicago historian and civil rights organizer Professor Timuel Black was there.

"It was hardly anyone -- regardless of their background, young or old, black or white -- who didn't have tears in their eyes when he said 'I have a dream,'" Black said.

Political consultant Don Rose said, "The response was just overwhelming."

Rose was there too. His job in 1963 was organizing transportation for thousands in Chicago to be part of the Washington march. He made plans for one 10-car train.

"It was a stunning thing," Rose said. "The thrill they had at the possibility of this event… we wound up filling two trains."

Black was also organizing the trek for the masses from Chicago. Their numbers eventually totaled 5,000.

"They were charmed by Dr. King and his willingness to sacrifice and put his life on the line," Black said. "They were just insistent that they be a part of what they felt would be a momentous occasion."

It is not unlike the crowds hoping to witness Sen. Barack Obama's acceptance speech in Denver Thursday night, when Dr. King's dream seems closer to reality.

"As someone put it, we all stand on the shoulders of giants," Rose said.

"What we're seeing today is a successful continuation of a famous struggle which was dramatized by Dr. King," Black said.


To find a viewing party for Obama's acceptance speech Thursday night, click here for a link his campaign's Web site.

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